"We know that excessive smartphone use increases anxiety, depression and other mental health issues - but we have the power to intervene," Newsom said in a statement on Monday, Sept. 23. 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."
"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," said Josh Hoover, R-Folsom.
The new law mandates that school districts adopt policies to restrict phone use during school hours, making limitations on phone use mandatory starting in the 2026 academic year.
A Pew Research Center survey revealed that 72% of high school and 33% of middle school teachers see cell phone distractions as a major issue, supporting the need for the law.
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