All-Gender Restrooms Are Now Required in K-12 Schools – What Parents Should Know

California schools must now provide at least one voluntary all-gender restroom while continuing to offer traditional boys’ and girls’ restrooms. Parents should understand how the new requirement works before the school year begins. (Pexels).

Parents across California are seeing a significant change on school campuses as a new restroom requirement officially takes effect. Beginning July 1, 2026, every qualifying K-12 public school campus must provide at least one all-gender restroom for voluntary student use under Senate Bill 760. The law is intended to improve accessibility and privacy while ensuring that every student has a safe restroom option.

“Schools should provide a safe and inclusive environment for all students, one where they’re able to focus on learning and where they’re encouraged to thrive academically, socially and emotionally,” said California Senator Josh Newman, author of SB 760. Understanding what the change actually means—and what it doesn’t mean—can help families separate facts from misconceptions.