California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a law on September 23 that will require school districts to create rules limiting or banning student smartphone use by July 1, 2026. The purpose of this legislation is to reduce distractions in the classroom and address concerns about the negative impact of social media on students’ mental health. Several other states, such as Florida and Indiana, have enacted similar laws to control phone usage in schools. The move follows calls from the U.S. surgeon general, who highlighted the harmful effects of social media on young people. School districts will also be mandated to review and update these policies every five years to adapt to evolving circumstances.

Schools that have already enforced similar restrictions have observed positive outcomes. For example, the Santa Barbara Unified School District reported increased student participation and improved social interactions after implementing a ban on phones during school hours. Nonetheless, critics argue that enforcing these policies could place excessive pressure on teachers and limit students’ ability to seek help in emergencies. The law retains exceptions for emergencies, consistent with a 2019 law permitting schools to restrict phone access. Educators like Mara Harvey from Natomas Unified School District acknowledged that while smartphones can serve as temporary alternatives when school-issued devices are unavailable, having clear regulations helps students concentrate and minimizes distractions. As more districts adopt these rules, the law aims to foster an environment where students can focus more on their academic and social development, free from the constant influence of digital devices.