The proposed bill amends the Revised School Code by adding Section 1304, which mandates that starting in the 2025-2026 school year, school districts and public school academies must develop and implement policies regarding the use of wireless communications devices, such as cell phones, in elementary, middle, and high schools. The policies are intended to limit student cell phone use during school hours to reduce distractions in classroom settings. Specifically, the policies may prohibit the use of these devices during instructional time, breaks, lunch, and recess, while allowing for additional restrictions as deemed necessary by the school boards.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that the wireless communications device policies must include exceptions for emergency situations, medical needs, and provisions outlined in individualized education programs. It also grants principals or chief administrators the discretion to implement further exceptions. Additionally, the policies must be publicly posted on the school district's or public school academy's website. Definitions for "school grounds" and "wireless communications device" are also provided to clarify the scope of the policy.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 380.1, 380.1852