AB 962 requires that, by July 1, 2026, the governing board of a school district or county office of education and the governing body of a charter school must develop a policy to limit or prohibit the use of smartphones by students while they are at a school site or under the supervision and control of an employee. Governing boards or bodies must develop this policy with significant stakeholder involvement and update it at least every five (5) years. AB 962 also allows governing boards and bodies to include enforcement mechanisms that limit student access to smartphones in this policy.
However, AB 962 further provides that a student may not be prohibited from possessing or using a smartphone in any of the following circumstances:
(1) In the case of an emergency or in response to a perceived threat of danger, unless this circumstance is explicitly addressed in a comprehensive school safety plan;
(2) When a teacher or administrator grants the student permission;
(3) When a licensed physician and surgeon determines that it is necessary for the student’s health or well-being, or
(4) When required in a student’s individualized education program.
(AB 962 amends Section 48901.7 of the Education Code.)