Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 3216, the Phone-Free School Act, into law, requiring California schools to limit or prohibit smartphone use during school hours. This legislation, effective statewide by July 1, 2026, aims to reduce digital distractions, improve mental health, and foster stronger in-person connections for students.

What is the Phone-Free School Act?

The Phone-Free School Act mandates every school district, charter school, and county office of education in California to develop and implement a smartphone use policy. These policies will strike a balance between restricting excessive phone use and allowing access for emergencies, educational purposes, or individualized education plans.

This builds on earlier efforts, including AB 272 (2019), which granted schools the authority to regulate smartphone use. Governor Newsom highlighted the urgency of the new legislation, stating:

"We know that excessive smartphone use increases anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues – but we have the power to intervene. This new law will help students focus on academics, social development, and the world in front of them, not their screens, when they’re in school."

Timeline for Implementation

• Now–June 2026: Schools will engage stakeholders, including parents, students, and educators, to create smartphone policies that reflect their community’s needs.
• July 1, 2026: All schools must adopt and enforce smartphone use policies.

Why This Matters for Students and Parents

Research shows excessive smartphone use negatively impacts student mental health and academic performance. For example:

• 72% of high school teachers report cell phone distractions as a major issue.
• Students spend an average of 43 minutes per school day on their phones, according to Common Sense Media.

By limiting phone use, the legislation aims to address these concerns and create more focused learning environments. Jennifer Siebel Newsom, California’s First Partner, emphasized the broader benefits:

"Reducing phone use in schools is essential for minimizing digital distractions and making space for stronger and more meaningful in-person connections."

Key Provisions for Parents and Students

• Emergency Access: Students will still be able to use phones during emergencies or with approval from educators.
• Flexibility for Learning: Teachers may allow phone use for specific academic purposes or based on student needs.
• Stakeholder Involvement: Parents and students will have a voice in shaping local policies.

Parents are encouraged to engage in the development of these policies to ensure they meet both safety and educational goals.

Expert Support and Broader Mental Health Efforts

Education and mental health leaders back the legislation as a critical step toward healthier schools. Assemblymember Josh Hoover called the law a “major victory,” adding:

"Research continues to demonstrate the potential harms of smartphone use among children. The growing use of these devices in a child’s everyday life can contribute to lower test scores, anxiety, depression, and even suicide."

This legislation aligns with California’s Master Plan for Kids’ Mental Health, which prioritizes the mental well-being of young people and increases access to support services.

Next Steps for Families

With implementation set for 2026, families should prepare for reduced phone use at school. Open communication with schools and active participation in policy discussions will ensure this transition benefits students' academic and emotional growth.

This law underscores a statewide commitment to youth mental health and academic success, setting a precedent for how schools can create healthier, more focused learning environments.