California Legislature Passes Bill Requiring Personal Finance Course for High School Graduation

California High School Students to Learn Personal Finance as Graduation Requirement

Legislators in California have passed a bill that will make personal finance education a requirement for high school graduation starting in the 2030-31 school year. This move comes as part of an effort to ensure that all students have the necessary knowledge and skills to manage their finances effectively.

The bill, known as Assembly Bill 2927, will require all high schools in California to offer a semester of personal finance instruction starting in the 2026-27 school year. The curriculum will cover topics such as budgeting, investing, credit, taxes, and consumer protection.

Supporters of the bill argue that financial literacy is a crucial life skill that all students should possess. They believe that by teaching students about money management, they can help combat wealth inequality and provide young people with the tools they need to make informed financial decisions.

However, the bill has faced some opposition from economics teachers who argue that adding personal finance as a graduation requirement will limit students’ course flexibility and schedules. They worry that enrollment in economics courses will decline as a result.

Despite these concerns, the bill has received widespread support from the business community, education organizations, and youth activism groups. Lawmakers hope that by providing students with a solid foundation in personal finance, they can help prepare them for the financial challenges they will face in the future.

Overall, the passage of Assembly Bill 2927 marks a significant step forward in ensuring that all California high school students have the knowledge and skills they need to achieve financial success.