Bill
HB 485
HB 485 mandates a cell phone use policy in public schools to reduce distractions, requiring schools to report on its impact on student engagement and performance.
Bill Number: HB 485
Introduced On: January 17, 2025
Status: Introduced and Passed First Reading
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Accountability, Cell Phone Use Policy, Department of Education (DOE), Reporting
Bill HB 485 aims to enhance accountability within educational institutions by establishing a clear policy regarding cell phone use among students. The intent of the bill is to create a structured environment conducive to learning, minimizing distractions caused by cell phone usage during school hours.
Cell Phone Use Policy: The bill mandates the Department of Education (DOE) to develop and implement a comprehensive cell phone use policy applicable to all public schools. This policy will outline acceptable and unacceptable uses of cell phones during school hours.
Reporting Requirements: Schools will be required to report on the effectiveness of the cell phone policy, including data on student engagement and academic performance. This reporting will help assess the impact of the policy on educational outcomes.
Accountability Measures: The bill includes provisions for accountability, ensuring that schools adhere to the established cell phone policy and report their findings to the DOE.
Students: The primary group affected by this bill will be students in public schools, who will need to comply with the new cell phone use policy.
Educators and School Administrators: Teachers and school administrators will be responsible for enforcing the policy and reporting on its effectiveness.
Department of Education (DOE): The DOE will play a crucial role in developing the policy, providing guidance to schools, and collecting reports on the policy's impact.
This bill is currently in the early stages of the legislative process, having passed its first reading and being referred to relevant committees for review and discussion. Further actions will determine the bill's progression and potential amendments.
HB 485 represents a proactive approach to managing cell phone use in educational settings, aiming to foster a more focused learning environment. As the bill moves through the legislative process, its implications for students, educators, and the DOE will become clearer, particularly regarding its effectiveness in enhancing educational accountability and student engagement.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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