This bill mandates that school districts develop and implement policies regarding student cell phone use during school hours. Specifically, it introduces a new paragraph to RSA 189:1-a, which requires school boards to create a policy that prohibits personal device use by students throughout the school day, with certain exceptions for students with medical needs, disabilities, or language proficiency requirements. The policy must be developed in collaboration with local educator associations and parents, and it is required to be reviewed and updated annually. Importantly, the bill ensures that students with disabilities are not restricted from using devices that support their learning as outlined in their individualized education programs (IEPs) or other relevant plans.

The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage and is expected to have an indeterminable fiscal impact on local expenditures, as the costs associated with implementing these policies will vary by school district. The legislation aims to create a structured approach to managing cell phone use in schools while accommodating the needs of students who require access to technology for educational purposes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 189:1-a