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Bill

SB 568

Public schools; addictive potential of time spent using certain electronic devices.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Christie Craig and 18 co-sponsors

SB 568 restricts Virginia public school students' use of school-issued devices to instructional purposes, establishing state policy on digital device management during instruction.

Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
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Bill Summary · SB 568

Legislative bill overview

SB 568 establishes policies governing the use of school-issued devices (such as laptops and tablets) by students in Virginia's public elementary and secondary schools, limiting their use to instructional purposes. The bill appears to address concerns about device usage during school hours and potentially sets parameters for what constitutes appropriate educational use.

Why is this important

As schools nationwide have invested billions in technology infrastructure, questions about device management, student screen time, and digital distraction have become increasingly relevant to educational outcomes. This legislation would establish state-level standards that could affect how Virginia schools implement technology policies and balance digital learning tools with classroom instruction quality.

Potential points of contention

  • Defining "instructional purposes" — The bill's effectiveness depends on clear definitions; ambiguity could lead to inconsistent enforcement across districts and schools
  • Balancing innovation with restrictions — Some educators may argue that flexible device use supports modern learning, while others contend restrictions improve focus and reduce behavioral issues
  • Implementation costs and equity — Schools may face expenses enforcing the policy, and socioeconomic disparities could emerge if some districts can better monitor compliance than others
  • Student privacy and monitoring — Depending on enforcement mechanisms, the policy could raise concerns about surveillance of student activity on school devices

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

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