The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 6923, aims to regulate the use of smart devices in public schools across the state. It amends Section 10-233j of the general statutes, which currently restricts the possession and use of remotely activated paging devices by students without the principal's written permission. The bill maintains this requirement while also allowing local or regional boards of education to impose restrictions on the use of cellular mobile telephones, taking into account the needs of parents and students.

In addition to these existing provisions, the bill introduces new requirements for local and regional boards of education. Starting from the school year commencing July 1, 2025, each board must adopt a policy that limits the use of smart devices, defined as any cellular mobile telephone or portable technology capable of connecting to the Internet and transmitting data. This policy must be developed in accordance with guidance from the Department of Education, thereby establishing a framework for managing smart device usage in schools. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 10-233j