An Act to regulate the use of mobile communication devices in educational institutions

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mark Montigny and 1 co-sponsor

Mass. SD 2220 bans mobile devices during instructional hours, requires storage in lockers, with exceptions for medical needs and basic phones.

House concurred

Summary: SD 2220 — An Act to regulate the use of mobile communication devices in educational institutions

Overview

SD 2220 proposes to regulate the use of mobile communication devices in public schools across Massachusetts, by requiring the state Department of Education to establish standards that prohibit device usage during instructional hours in public elementary, secondary, and vocational schools. The bill was introduced February 27, 2025, and the House has concurred. It would take effect at the start of the next academic year after passage.

Purpose and intent

To minimize distractions and improve student focus during instructional time.

To standardize policies across public schools regarding when and where students may use mobile devices.

To provide clear expectations and consequences communicated to students and parents.

Key provisions

Definition: “Mobile communication device” means any portable electronic device capable of voice communication, text messaging, internet access, and application usage (e.g., smartphones, tablets).

Standards for districts: The Department of Education must establish standards that require school districts to prohibit usage of mobile devices during instructional hours in all public elementary, secondary, and vocational schools.

Designated storage: Standards require students to store devices in designated areas or lockers during school hours to reduce distractions.

Exceptions for approved use:

Authorized school personnel may use devices for official school purposes.
Students with documented medical needs or other exceptional circumstances may use devices as approved by school administration.

Communication and consequences: Standards must ensure clear communication to students and parents about the regulations and any consequences for violations of the school’s cell phone policy.

Limited exceptions for basic phones: The standards may allow exceptions for cellular phones that do not provide internet access or application usage, enabling basic parent communication while minimizing classroom noise and distractions.

Scope and implementation

Applies to all public elementary, secondary, and vocational schools in the Commonwealth.

Implementation is through standards established by the Department of Education; districts would subsequently adopt or adapt policies to meet those standards.

Timeline

Effective date: Beginning of the next academic year following enactment.

Legislative status: House concurred on February 27, 2025; referred to the Committee on Education.

Potential impact

Students: Reduced on-campus distractions; potential limitations on real-time communication during class; exemptions for medical or approved needs remain.

Families: Clear expectations and policies regarding device use; potential impact on parent-student communication during school hours.

Schools and districts: Uniform framework for device policies; need to manage storage requirements and enforce standards; administrative coordination with the Department of Education.

Note: The bill does not specify penalties beyond school policy consequences, leaving enforcement details to district policies consistent with the new standards.