Bill
HF 273
Bill HF 273 requires schools to ban personal electronic devices during class by December 31, 2025, aiming to reduce distractions and enhance student learning.
Bill Number: HF 273
Title: A bill for an act relating to student access to personal electronic devices in schools.
Status: Introduced, referred to Education.
Introduced Date: February 10, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Cellular Phones, Electronics, Schools, Students
The primary purpose of Bill HF 273 is to regulate student access to personal electronic devices, specifically cellular phones and similar devices, during classroom instructional time in schools. The bill aims to enhance the learning environment by minimizing distractions caused by personal electronic devices.
Policy Requirement:
By December 31, 2025, all school districts, accredited nonpublic schools, charter schools, and innovation zone schools are required to adopt a policy that prohibits the use of personal electronic devices during classroom instructional time.
Definition of Personal Electronic Device:
The bill defines a "personal electronic device" as any cellular phone or electronic device that combines cellular phone capabilities with a handheld computer, which includes internet access and text or electronic mail functionalities.
Policy Components:
The required policy must include specific provisions, although the detailed contents of these provisions are not specified in the summary provided.
Public Accessibility:
Schools must make the policy publicly available and ensure that it is included in the student handbook. Additionally, they are required to provide copies of the policy to the Department of Education.
Notification to Parents:
Schools must notify the parents or guardians of each student about the policy, either by providing a copy or through other means of communication.
The bill will impact:
- School Districts: Public school districts will need to implement the new policy.
- Accredited Nonpublic Schools: Private schools that meet accreditation standards will also be required to comply.
- Charter Schools: These independently operated public schools must adhere to the new regulations.
- Innovation Zone Schools: Schools that operate under innovative educational models will be included in the policy requirements.
Timeline:
The bill mandates that the policy be adopted by December 31, 2025, allowing schools time to develop and implement the necessary regulations.
Legislative Status:
As of the introduction date, the bill has been referred to the Education committee for further consideration.
Bill HF 273 seeks to create a structured approach to managing the use of personal electronic devices in educational settings, aiming to foster a more focused learning environment. The requirement for schools to adopt and communicate this policy underscores the importance of parental involvement and public awareness in educational policies.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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