WeVote

Bill

Bill

A 5954

Prohibits students from possessing cellphones during classroom instruction

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Keith Brown and 1 co-sponsor

Bill A 5954 prohibits K-12 students from possessing cellphones during class, aiming to reduce distractions and enhance focus and engagement in learning.

REFERRED TO EDUCATION
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 5954

Summary of Bill A 5954

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 5954
  • Title: Prohibits students from possessing cellphones during classroom instruction
  • Status: Referred to Education
  • Introduced: February 25, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 5954 aims to enhance the learning environment in classrooms by prohibiting students from possessing cellphones during instructional time. The intent behind this legislation is to minimize distractions caused by mobile devices, thereby improving student focus and engagement in educational activities.

Key Provisions

  • Cellphone Prohibition: The bill specifically prohibits students from having cellphones in their possession during classroom instruction. This includes both traditional classrooms and any instructional settings where formal teaching occurs.
  • Enforcement Measures: While the bill does not detail specific enforcement mechanisms, it implies that schools will need to establish policies to manage and monitor cellphone possession among students during class time.
  • Exceptions: The bill does not currently outline any exceptions for emergencies or specific educational purposes, which may be a point of discussion as the bill progresses.

Affected Parties

  • Students: The primary group affected by this bill will be students in K-12 educational settings who will be required to adhere to the new cellphone policy.
  • Educators: Teachers and school administrators will need to implement and enforce the new rules, which may require additional training or resources.
  • Parents: Parents may need to adjust their communication methods with their children during school hours, as direct contact via cellphones will be restricted.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Action: The bill was introduced on February 25, 2025, and has been referred to the Education Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: This bill is related to A 9687 from a prior session, which may provide context or background on previous attempts to regulate cellphone use in schools.

Conclusion

Bill A 5954 seeks to create a more focused educational environment by prohibiting cellphone possession during classroom instruction. As it moves through the legislative process, discussions around its implications, enforcement, and potential exceptions will be critical in shaping its final form and impact on the educational landscape.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.