While most new California laws go into effect on Jan. 1, some receive delayed implementation dates to give agencies and organizations more time to prepare.
That includes a handful of education laws taking effect today after school districts, county offices of education and charter schools spent months — and in some cases years — prepping for implementation.
These new state laws are now in place, but many of their most visible impacts will be seen as California’s students return for the 2026–27 school year.
Phone-Free Schools Act (AB 3216)
Beginning today, the Phone-Free Schools Act (AB 3216) requires every California school district, county office of education and charter school to have a policy that limits or prohibits student smartphone use while students are on campus or under school supervision.
That said, the law gives local governing boards flexibility to determine how those policies are implemented and enforced while requiring exceptions for emergencies and other circumstances defined in law. School policies must also be reviewed and updated at least every five years.
The measure was signed in September 2024, giving local educational agencies nearly two years to develop policies tailored to local needs. As a result, students and families may notice different approaches from one district to another when schools reopen this fall.
All-Gender Student Restrooms (SB 760)
Beginning today, SB 760 requires every K-12 public and private school in California to provide at least one all-gender restroom that is available for student use.
Many schools have already met the requirement by redesignating an existing single-user restroom rather than constructing new facilities. Families may notice new signage or updated campus maps as the school year begins.
Crisis Resources on Student ID Cards (AB 727)
Beginning today, AB 727 requires newly issued student identification cards for students in grades 7 through 12 at California public schools to include The Trevor Project’s LGBTQ+ suicide hotline, in addition to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline already required by state law.
The requirement includes both the hotline’s telephone number and text line. It applies to all newly issued and replacement student identification cards issued on or after July 1.