California
Sex Laws 2026

California's age of consent is 18. There is no close-in-age exemption in California law. Sexual intercourse with a person under 18 is a crime regardless of the age of the older party, though penalties are calibrated by the age gap under California Penal Code Section 261.5. The absence of a close-in-age exemption distinguishes California from most other states.

California requires comprehensive sex education under the California Healthy Youth Act, enacted in 2015. Instruction must be medically accurate, age-appropriate, and inclusive of LGBTQ+ relationships and identities. Affirmative consent is a required topic in high school. The FAIR Education Act requires that LGBTQ+ historical figures and contributions be included in social studies curriculum. Schools must present information about contraception, pregnancy, and STI prevention without bias.

California has the most permissive adult entertainment regulatory environment in the country. The pornographic film industry is concentrated primarily in the San Fernando Valley, and California is the only state where commercial adult film production operates openly as a regulated industry. Los Angeles County Measure B (2012) mandated condom use on adult film sets, though enforcement has been inconsistent. Strip clubs, adult bookstores, and other adult businesses are broadly permitted across the state.

Among the most progressive. FAIR Education Act requires LGBTQ+ history in curriculum. Affirmative consent taught in high school. Age 18.

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• Educate to Empower: Protecting Reproductive Rights in Texas - Georgetown UniversityApr 8
• The Debate Over Sex Education and Its Consequences - Gonzaga UniversityJul 17
• Jayapal Introduces Resolution Supporting May as Sex Ed for All Month - House.govMay 23
• Foster Care’s Missing Policies For Sexual and Reproductive Health - The ImprintMay 9
• Moving the Ball Forward on Comprehensive Sex Education - American Civil Liberties UnionJan 7