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Bill

HB 1122

Restricting mobile device usage by public school students.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stephanie Barnard and 14 co-sponsors

HB 1122 restricts student mobile device use in Washington public schools to reduce classroom distractions and improve academic focus during instructional time.

First reading, referred to Education.
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Bill Summary · HB 1122

Legislative bill overview

HB 1122 would restrict mobile device usage by students in Washington public schools during instructional time and potentially other school hours. The bill aims to reduce distractions and improve academic focus by limiting when and how students can use phones, tablets, and similar devices on school campuses.

Why is this important

Mobile device restrictions directly affect classroom learning environments and student academic performance—issues repeatedly cited by educators and parents. The policy also touches on broader questions about child development, screen time management, and the school's role in regulating student behavior during the instructional day.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and enforcement: Whether restrictions apply only during class, lunch, and passing periods, or school-wide; how schools enforce compliance without creating new administrative burdens
  • Student access and equity: Whether exceptions for educational purposes, accessibility needs, or emergency communication are clearly defined; concerns about disadvantaging students who rely on devices for learning accommodations
  • Parental authority vs. school authority: Disagreement over whether schools should regulate personal devices or whether this is primarily a parental responsibility; questions about students' ability to contact parents during emergencies
  • Implementation costs: Whether districts need funding for secure device storage, monitoring systems, or staff training to implement the policy effectively

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

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