California middle and high schools could not start earlier than 8:30 a.m. under a bill headed to Gov. Jerry Brown.
The bill narrowly cleared both chambers of the Legislature on Friday afternoon.
It would give schools about three years to comply. It would not apply to rural schools or to extra periods offered before the start of a school day. It would not mandate changes to school day lengths.
Supporters point to science that shows later start times make kids healthier and help them graduate by letting them get more sleep. Opponents say local school boards should determine start times, not the state.
A similar bill failed in the Legislature last year. It needs Brown’s signature to become law.
