On Aug. 31, the California State Assembly voted to pass SB 328, the School Start Time Bill, authored by Senator Anthony J. Portantino.

“I am beyond thrilled that our children’s health came first today. It is fundamental to put the well being of our students first and I am glad that this important measure is moving forward,” said Portantino. “From day one, this has been my top priority. The science and results are clear, our teens are healthier and perform better when school starts later.”

Last year, Portantino authored SB 328 based on strong research and the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics. The organization issued a policy statement advising school districts to change the school day start time to no earlier than 8:30 a.m., specifically for middle schools and high schools. Studies have confirmed that insufficient sleep in teenage adolescents poses a public health risk. Later start time has resulted in more on-time attendance, higher grades and graduation rates.

California has over 3 million public middle and high school students. The average school day start time for these students is 8:07 a.m., according to the Center for Disease and Control. California school districts would benefit with later school day start times as funding is tied to attendance. SB 328 will update the California Education Code to ensure that middle and high school start times meet the parameters recommended by the AAP. The bill will allow zero periods, exempts rural districts and sets an implementation date of 2021.

“This is great news for the health, safety, and academic success of our children,” said Dianna MacDonald, president of the California State PTA.

SB 328 is anticipated to pass the Senate on concurrence and move to the governor to await his signature.