Bill would stop schools from requiring students to use social media for extracurriculars

Assemblymember (author) presented AB 302 as a narrowly tailored measure to protect minors from being excluded from school extracurricular activities—sports, clubs and leadership programs—because a student does not maintain or use a social‑media account. The author said the bill would not bar schools from using social platforms, but would require at least one additional non‑addictive means of communication such as email or text so participation cannot be conditioned on joining Instagram or similar services.

Crystal Strait of Common Sense Media testified in support, saying the organization backs steps that reduce pressure on students to be on platforms they or their parents judge unhealthy. Committee members asked how the amendment package would define "covered entities" and whether the bill would apply to one‑time public events; the author said recent committee amendments narrow coverage to programs that require a parent's signature or an enrollment form (for example, camps or after‑school programs), and that casual or walk‑in events without forms would not be covered.

Vice Chair and other members offered anecdotal support and asked staff to resolve technical drafting questions before the bill reaches a quorum vote. The committee moved the measure as amended for further action when the panel had a quorum.

The hearing record indicates no registered opposition during the committee presentation, and several members signaled support pending final drafting clarifications. The next procedural step stated in the hearing was a do‑pass recommendation to the Appropriations Committee once quorum voting occurs.