The Governor of California, Gavin Newsom, has signed the "Phone-Free School Act." This legislation requires every school district, charter school, and regional education authority across the state to implement rules limiting mobile phone use by July 1, 2026. There are exceptions to this rule, including phone use in emergencies or with permission under specific circumstances.
"We know that excessive smartphone usage increases anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, but we have the opportunity to intervene," Newsom stated in a release.
California has enacted this law at a time when other states, such as New York, are considering legislation for a complete ban on phones in schools. This is part of a series of laws aimed at ensuring children's safety in relation to technology use. Such regulations are being adopted at both state and national levels, including the Internet Safety for Children Act and laws regarding age restrictions.
Assembly Bill 3216 states that schools must "develop, adopt, and update every five years rules to restrict or ban the use of smartphones by students" while they are on school grounds or under the supervision of school staff. The goal of such restrictions is to promote "evidence-based smartphone use to support student learning and well-being." The document claims that this should "align with the unique needs and desires of students, parents, and educators in each community."
The law also states that schools may implement "enforcement mechanisms" to limit access to phones.
The California School Boards Association has opposed the new law. The organization argues that it is excessive and forces decision-makers to adopt policies that restrict mobile phone use, even if it has been found to be unnecessary.
Currently, at least 15 states in the U.S. have enacted laws or policies to limit mobile phone use by students in schools.
Source: The Verge
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