A new California law will go into effect January 2026 that seeks to limit smartphone use during school.
AB 3216 will amend existing law, requiring the governing body of public or charter schools to adopt a policy that limits or prohibits the use of cell phones by July 1, 2026.
The new law also states that a student cannot be prohibited from possessing or using a smart phone in case of an emergency, when permitted by teachers or administrators of the school, when a licensed physician and surgeon determines use is necessary for the health and well-being of the pupil, or when use is required in an individualized education program.
AB 3216 will also require school governing bodies to update their policies prohibiting or limiting smartphone use every 5 years.
