California has taken a significant step towards addressing the mental health concerns of students by enacting a law that restricts or bans smartphone use in schools. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the legislation following growing worries about the impact of excessive screen time on students’ well-being.
The new law mandates that by July 1, 2026, all school districts in California must develop policies limiting smartphone access during school hours, with required updates every five years. This move affects nearly 5.9 million public school students across the state.
The legislation received overwhelming support in both the state assembly and senate, reflecting a broad consensus on the need to address mental health issues linked to smartphone use among young people. Governor Newsom emphasized that the law aims to help students focus on academics and social interactions, stating that excessive smartphone use can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. He noted that the law would help students “focus on the world in front of them.”
This initiative aligns with recent policies in Los Angeles County, where smartphones were banned for its 429,000 students in June. The move follows actions taken by thirteen other states this year, including Florida, which led the way in banning phones in classrooms.
In conjunction with these efforts, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has advocated for warning labels on social media platforms, comparing the situation to a mental health emergency. Murthy cited a study published in the journal JAMA, which found that adolescents spending more than three hours daily on social media face “a heightened risk for mental health problems.” The research, involving 6,595 U.S. adolescents, indicated a direct correlation between social media usage and increased rates of internalizing problems.
The enactment of this law reflects a growing recognition of the challenges posed by technology in the lives of young people. By limiting smartphone use in schools, California aims to create a healthier learning environment where students can engage more fully with their education and peers without the distractions and potential negative impacts of excessive screen time.
(With input from Reuters)
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California limits smartphone use in schools over mental health worries
cgtn.com