School districts in California will now be required to either limit or prohibit cell phones in classrooms.

Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill earlier this week that now requires school districts to adopt a policy that limits or restricts phones on campus. The current law gives districts or county offices of education the option to ban or limit cell phone use during school hours. Beginning in the 2026 academic year, a policy will be mandatory. The new law does grant exceptions during an emergency or perceived threat or when a teacher grants permission.