§ 51203

(a) Instruction upon the nature of alcohol, narcotics, restricted dangerous drugs as defined in Section 11032 of the Health and Safety Code, and other dangerous substances and their effects upon the human system as determined by science shall be included in the curriculum of all elementary and secondary schools.

(b) Instruction on the effects of alcohol, narcotics, restricted dangerous drugs as defined in Section 11032 of the Health and Safety Code, and other dangerous substances upon prenatal development as determined by science shall be included in the curriculum of all secondary schools.

(c) Instruction on the nature and effects of alcohol pursuant to this section shall include information about excessive alcohol use and the short-term and long-term health risks of excessive alcohol use. This instruction shall include information about excessive drinking, the immediate effects of alcohol that increase the risks of harmful health conditions, and how excessive alcohol use can lead to the development of chronic diseases and other serious problems, including alcohol-related deaths and mental health problems. The instruction about mental health problems may include instruction about depression and anxiety.

(d) The governing board of the school district shall adopt regulations specifying the grade or grades and the course or courses in which the instruction with respect to alcohol, narcotics, restricted dangerous drugs as defined in Section 11032 of the Health and Safety Code, and other dangerous substances shall be included.

(e) All persons responsible for the preparation or enforcement of courses of study shall provide for instruction on the subjects of alcohol, narcotics, restricted dangerous drugs as defined in Section 11032 of the Health and Safety Code, and other dangerous substances.

(Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 314, Sec. 1. (AB 2865) Effective January 1, 2025.)