California has taken a major step to reduce the homework burden on students with the introduction of the Healthy Homework Act, officially known as AB 2999, Newsweek reports.
The law, signed by governor Gavin Newsom in September, aims to tackle student stress while promoting equitable learning and well-being.
This groundbreaking law does not ban homework outright but urges school districts to create thoughtful homework policies for all grades.The focus is on implementing evidence-based practices that enhance learning without overwhelming children.
The act encourages schools to evaluate both the quality and quantity of assignments, taking into account the resources students have to complete their work, such as access to technology and parental support. It also addresses the negative effects of excessive homework, including sleep deprivation, headaches, exhaustion, and other physical health problems.
Research supporting the legislation includes a survey of 15,000 California high school students by non-profit group Challenge Success. The study found that 45% of respondents cited homework as a significant source of stress, and over half described some assignments as unproductive busywork.
Pilar Schiavo, the Democratic assemblywoman behind the bill, explained her motivation: “The top reason [students drop out] is because kids are getting behind… Too much homework can overwhelm them.” Her sixth-grade daughter, Sofia Johnson, shared her struggles: “Homework is exhausting. It’s overwhelming,” Johnson was quoted as saying to Newsweek.
Denise Pope, cofounder of Challenge Success, highlighted the importance of student input, saying, “We believe it is important to bring student voices into conversations about policies that affect their well-being.”
The California department of education is tasked with issuing guidelines for school districts by January 2026. Schools are encouraged to adopt comprehensive homework policies by the 2027-28 academic year.
With this law, California hopes to create a more balanced educational experience, prioritising the mental and physical health of its students.