House Bill No. 6923 mandates that local and regional boards of education in Connecticut adopt a policy each school year, starting with the 2025-26 school year, to limit the use of smart devices in schools. This policy must be developed using guidance from the State Department of Education and is in addition to existing regulations that allow school boards to restrict student possession or use of cellular mobile phones. The bill defines "smart devices" as cellular mobile telephones or other wearable or portable technology capable of connecting to the internet, processing data, and communicating with other devices.

The bill repeals the current Section 10-233j and replaces it with new provisions that maintain the requirement for students to obtain written permission from school principals to possess or use remotely activated paging devices. It also emphasizes that school boards must consider the special needs of parents and students when determining restrictions on cell phone use. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to enhance student engagement and well-being by regulating the use of technology in educational settings.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 10-233j
ED Joint Favorable: 10-233j
File No. 591: 10-233j