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 comprehensive policy that defines personal device usage for students. The policy must be school-wide, with exceptions made for students with medical, disability, or language proficiency needs. It emphasizes collaboration with teachers and parents in the policy development process and mandates an annual review and update of the policy. Importantly, the bill ensures that students with disabilities are not prohibited from using devices that support their learning, as outlined in their individualized education programs (IEPs) or other relevant plans.

The bill also includes provisions for administrative involvement if the policies are not enforced or are disregarded by students. The effective date for this legislation is set for 60 days after its passage. The fiscal impact of the bill is noted as indeterminable, with local expenditures potentially varying by district, but no immediate revenue impact is expected.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 189:1-a
As Amended by the Senate: 189:1-a