by Sacramento, CA – As California moves into 2026, a slate of new education laws signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom is taking effect, bringing changes that range from immigration-related student protections to school nutrition standards and college admissions. Several of the measures have already generated intense debate among parents, educators, and advocacy groups across the state.
During 2025, Gov. Newsom signed multiple education-focused bills that officially begin implementation this year. While some measures focus on literacy, nutrition, and higher education access, others have raised concerns over parental consent, student safety, and oversight in public schools. The laws collectively affect K–12 students, college-bound seniors, school administrators, and families statewide.
Family Preparedness Plan Act Draws Strong Opposition
One of the most controversial measures is Assembly Bill 495, known as the Family Preparedness Plan Act of 2025.
Authored by Assemblywoman Celeste Rodriguez (D–San Fernando), the law is intended to help immigrant families prepare for situations in which a parent is unexpectedly detained by immigration authorities. Supporters argue it prevents children from being left without care.
Under AB 495, a “nonrelative extended family member” may authorize:
- School enrollment
- School-related medical care
This can be done by completing a one-page affidavit. The affidavit explicitly states that anyone relying on it “has no obligation to make any further inquiry or investigation.”
The California Family Council and several parental advocacy organizations have sharply criticized the law, arguing it opens the door to abuse.
Opponents have described the measure as a “child trafficker’s dream,” warning that it weakens safeguards designed to protect children from exploitation.
LGBTQ+ Hotline Requirement on Student ID Cards
Another widely debated law is Assembly Bill 727, authored by Assemblymember Mark González (D–Los Angeles).
The law requires that The Trevor Project’s LGBTQ+ suicide prevention hotline information be printed on the back of public school student ID cards, beginning in grade seven through college.
The Trevor Project serves LGBTQ+ youth ages 13 to 24 and also operates an online platform called TrevorSpace, which allows young people to share personal stories and interact online.
Brenda Lebsack, a trustee with the Santa Ana Unified School District, publicly opposed the bill.
“I was shocked that the governor signed to have Trevor Project on the back of every ID card,” Lebsack testified.
Supporters of AB 727 say the hotline provides critical mental health support for at-risk youth, while critics argue schools should not distribute external platform access without stronger oversight or parental consent.
Ultra-Processed Foods to Be Phased Out of School Meals
Another education law taking effect is Assembly Bill 1264, authored by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D–San Fernando Valley).
The measure will phase out ultra-processed foods from California public school meals, part of a broader effort to improve student nutrition and long-term health outcomes.
Schools will gradually shift toward meals with:
- Fewer artificial additives
- Lower sodium and sugar levels
- More whole and minimally processed ingredients
Literacy Training Expanded Statewide
As part of the Golden State Literacy Plan, Gov. Newsom also signed Assembly Bill 1454, authored by Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D–Salinas).
The law aims to improve reading outcomes by ensuring:
- Teachers receive enhanced literacy training
- School leaders have access to updated instructional tools
- Evidence-based literacy strategies are used consistently statewide
State officials say the bill addresses long-standing literacy gaps that were worsened by pandemic-era learning disruptions.
Automatic CSU Admission for Qualifying Students
Higher education access will also change under Senate Bill 640, authored by Sen. Christopher Cabaldon (D–California).
Under the new law:
- Qualifying students receive automatic admission to California State University (CSU) campuses
- Students must apply through CaliforniaColleges.edu
- Applicants will receive an official acceptance letter
- Students may choose which CSU campuses to apply to
Supporters say the measure simplifies the college application process and expands access for students who meet academic benchmarks.
Conclusion
As these education laws take effect in 2026, California schools face significant policy shifts that will influence how children are cared for, taught, fed, and guided toward college. While supporters view the changes as progress, critics argue several measures lack sufficient safeguards. The coming months will reveal how these laws function in practice.
How do you feel about California’s new education laws taking effect in 2026? Share your experiences in the comments below.
