Bill
AB 962
Overview: AB 962 - Pupil safety: comprehensive school safety plans: use of smartphonesStatus: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 284, Statutes of 2025Introduced: February 20
Overview: AB 962 - Pupil safety: comprehensive school safety plans: use of smartphones
Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 284, Statutes of 2025
Introduced: February 20, 2025
Purpose and Intent:
The main goal of AB 962 is to enhance pupil safety and emergency preparedness in California schools by allowing the use of personal smartphones as part of comprehensive school safety plans. The bill aims to leverage the ubiquity of smartphones to improve communication and response capabilities during critical incidents.
Key Provisions:
- Authorizes schools to include the use of personal smartphones in their comprehensive school safety plans
- Allows schools to develop policies and procedures for students and staff to use their personal smartphones for emergency communication and reporting
- Requires schools to provide training and guidance to students and staff on the appropriate use of smartphones for safety purposes
- Prohibits schools from requiring students to bring or use their personal smartphones, ensuring access remains optional
Affected Parties and Impacts:
This bill would directly impact K-12 schools, students, and staff in California. By incorporating personal smartphones into school safety plans, the legislation could enhance emergency preparedness and response, potentially improving overall pupil safety. However, it also raises concerns about student privacy and equitable access to technology.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations:
AB 962 was introduced in the California State Assembly in February 2025 and was subsequently signed into law by the governor in September 2025. The new law will take effect immediately, allowing schools to begin updating their comprehensive safety plans to include the use of personal smartphones.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
Sign in to ask a question.
