California AB347 allows pupils to opt out of animal dissection in public schools and choose alternative assessments.

California AB347 amends the Education Code to give pupils the right to refuse participation in dissection activities and select alternative assessments. Starting July 1, 2026, pupils in courses involving animal dissection must be informed of their rights to opt-out and choose alternative educational projects or tests. These alternatives must require a comparable time and effort and cannot be more difficult than the original assessment. Pupils must notify their teachers of their objections, substantiated by a note from their parent or guardian.

California AB347 allows pupils to opt out of animal dissection in public schools and choose alternative assessments.

California AB347 amends the Education Code to give pupils the right to refuse participation in dissection activities and select alternative assessments. Starting July 1, 2026, pupils in courses involving animal dissection must be informed of their rights to opt-out and choose alternative educational projects or tests. These alternatives must require a comparable time and effort and cannot be more difficult than the original assessment. Pupils must notify their teachers of their objections, substantiated by a note from their parent or guardian.