This bill mandates that by December 31, 2025, school districts and accredited nonpublic schools in Iowa must adopt a policy that prohibits the use of personal electronic devices during classroom instructional time. The bill defines personal electronic devices as cellular phones and any device that combines a cellular phone with a handheld computer, offering internet access and text or email capabilities. The policy must apply to all attendance centers and can have different expectations for various grade levels. It must also specify the expectations for device use, outline disciplinary actions for violations, and allow for exceptions in emergencies, health management, or for students with individualized education programs.

Additionally, the bill requires that the adopted policy be made publicly available, provided to the Department of Education, included in student handbooks, and communicated to parents or guardians through various means, such as email or notes sent home with students. The bill inserts new language into existing law to ensure compliance with these requirements, emphasizing the importance of regulating personal electronic device use in educational settings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256E.7, 280.36