Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh announced on May 5 that Senate Bill 1147 has passed the Senate Education Committee, moving forward efforts to expand financial literacy education for high school students in California.
The bill is significant because it would allow Local Education Agencies to offer a year-long personal finance course integrated with subjects like economics, business, or mathematics. Current law restricts personal finance instruction to a one-semester standalone course.
“Financial literacy is one of the most important life skills we can give our students,” said Senator Ochoa Bogh. “Young people are entering adulthood facing complex financial decisions, from student loans to credit and saving for the future. We need to make sure they are prepared.”
Support for SB 1147 has grown across the state, with more than 75 letters backing the measure submitted by school districts throughout California. This support highlights agreement among educators that expanded financial education could help prepare students for adult responsibilities.
Research cited by supporters shows that national surveys find strong demand for required personal finance courses among adults and recent graduates. Studies also indicate that students who take such courses gain greater confidence managing their finances and may benefit financially over time.
Currently, California requires a one-semester personal finance course beginning in the 2027–28 school year but does not permit more advanced or integrated coursework. SB 1147 seeks to address this limitation by giving schools flexibility to provide deeper instruction through a year-long program.
