Many California students encounter animal dissection in middle or high school science classes. Less frequently discussed is a state law that already gives students the legal right to opt out of these assignments for moral objections. A bill currently under consideration in the state legislature—Assembly Bill 2640—seeks to expand and clarify those protections even further.

Here's what to know.

What the Current Law Says

Under Sections 32255 through 32255.6 of the California Education Code, any K–12 public school student who has a moral objection to the dissection or harmful use of animals in class may choose not to participate.

Instead, they can complete an alternative education project, such as a simulation, video, model, or reading-based assignment. Teachers are required to notify students of this option and may work with the student to develop a suitable replacement.

Here’s how the process works today:

• Students must notify their teacher of their objection.
• A note from a parent or guardian is required.
• If a suitable alternative exists, the student completes that project instead.
• The alternative project must be comparable in effort—not harder—and the student must still pass all required exams or assessments.

These rights apply across all California public schools, from kindergarten through 12th grade.

A New Bill Could Strengthen These Rights

In 2024, Assembly Member Ash Kalra introduced AB 2640, a bill that would expand and clarify the existing dissection opt-out law.

As of this article's publication, AB 2640 has not yet passed, but if it becomes law, it would:

• Require teachers to offer an alternative project or test—removing the current “if possible” language.
• Prohibit grade penalties for students who choose not to dissect.
• Require schools to provide written notice about dissection rights and options, including information about where the animals came from and what chemicals were used to preserve them.
• Add these rights to California’s Uniform Complaint Procedures, giving families a clear pathway for reporting issues.
• Encourage schools to explore virtual dissection and other alternatives by 2028.

The bill is still under consideration in the California Legislature and has gone through multiple amendments as of mid-2024.

Understanding the Process

For students who have a moral objection to animal dissection, California’s current law allows them to request an alternative project. This typically involves providing written notice to their teacher, including a signed note from a parent or guardian. The teacher may then offer a replacement assignment that covers the same material through other methods—such as videos, models, or reading-based work.

Under the existing law, schools must inform students of their rights before any dissection activities begin.

If Assembly Bill 2640 passes, some of these steps would become more standardized and better supported—like requiring teachers to offer an alternative without exception, and making information about animal sourcing and preservation chemicals more accessible.

For now, families who are curious about how their school handles dissection alternatives can review their district’s policies or speak with a school administrator.

Why This Matters

Animal dissection has long been a standard part of science education, but perspectives are evolving. Some students object for ethical or religious reasons. Others are sensitive to the materials or prefer newer learning tools like 3D models and digital simulations.

California was one of the first states to grant students the legal right to opt out—years before most virtual alternatives even existed. Today, those options are widely available, and bills like AB 2640 aim to make sure families are informed and supported.

Bottom Line

California law already gives students the right to opt out of animal dissection for moral reasons—and schools are required to support that choice. If AB 2640 becomes law, those protections could soon become even more robust and easier to navigate.

Whether or not a student chooses to opt out, knowing their options is key to making an informed decision about their education.