New education bills aim to reshape classrooms, health, and equity in California

California lawmakers have advanced a series of sweeping education reforms that could reshape how public schools function across the state, leaving Governor Gavin Newsom to decide whether they become law.

One of the central measures, Assembly Bill 715, broadens protections against discrimination in schools.

The bill calls for the creation of a state Office for Civil Rights in Education, mandatory anti-bias training for school staff, and resources to help students identify and report harassment.

“This legislation is about ensuring every student feels safe and supported,” supporters said, citing a rise in civil rights complaints in recent years.

Lawmakers also passed Assembly Bill 1454, requiring all schools to adopt “Science of Reading” instructional methods, a structured literacy approach built on phonics and comprehension.

With only 46% of third graders meeting English standards in state tests, advocates believe the shift could close learning gaps, particularly for disadvantaged students.

Senate Bill 640 addresses access to higher education by creating automatic admission to California State University campuses for students who meet GPA and course requirements.

The policy is designed to help first-generation and low-income students bypass complex applications, boosting enrollment among underrepresented groups.

Student health is another priority. New nutrition standards would eliminate sugary drinks and processed foods from cafeterias, replacing them with menus based on fresh produce, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Lawmakers argue the overhaul is vital to counter rising childhood obesity rates, with nearly 1 in 3 California children classified as overweight or obese.

Curriculum reforms are also on the table. The proposed measures would accelerate the rollout of ethnic studies requirements and push districts to weave diverse cultural perspectives across subjects.

More than 75% of California’s students identify as non-white, and legislators say schools must reflect that reality.

The success of these changes will depend on funding, training, and local cooperation. While Newsom has generally backed equity-focused policies, he has until Oct 12 to sign or veto the bills.

Analysts suggest the reforms could make California a model for states tackling literacy gaps, equity concerns, and college enrollment challenges.