Legislation Moves Forward Earliest Start Times in California Schools

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation Sunday that pushes forward the start of the school day for many California students. After a three-year phase-in, the new law will require middle and high schools to start no earlier than 8 a.m. or 8:30 a.m., respectively. Proponents say the later times, and extra sleep, will lead to better attendance numbers and higher grades. But opponents, including many school boards and teachers, say the matter was better left to local control. Former Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a similar proposal last year. We discuss the new rules, and consider what the latest research says about teenagers and sleep.