Gavin Newsom wants to restrict smartphone use in schools

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has announced support for imposing restrictions on smartphones in schools, echoing growing concerns by parents, educators and lawmakers nationwide that excessive screen time during class is distracting and harming students.

Newsom (D) cited U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy’s call this week for imposing tobacco-style warning labels on social media apps to inform users about their deleterious effects on youth mental health. Newsom noted a 2019 law he signed that authorized California school districts to impose limits or bans on smartphones during the school day. The governor did not elaborate on what exact measures he would support, although several proposals are before the California Legislature, which is dominated by Democrats.