This bill mandates that school districts create and implement policies regarding the use of personal cell phones by students during school hours. Specifically, it requires the insertion of a new paragraph into RSA 189:1-a, which states that school boards must develop a policy that restricts student cell phone use during class instruction unless approved by an educator. The bill encourages districts to consider exceptions for cell phone use when educators incorporate devices into their lesson plans. Importantly, the policy must also ensure that students with disabilities are not prohibited from using their devices as outlined in their individualized education programs (IEP) or 504 plans.

The bill does not include any deletions from current law but introduces new legal language to establish these requirements. It is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, ensuring that school districts have a clear timeline for compliance with the new regulations regarding student cell phone use.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 189:1-a