The bill amends sections 3313.753 and 5502.262 of the Revised Code to generally prohibit student cellular telephone use in public schools. It allows school boards to adopt policies that prohibit students from carrying electronic communications devices on school grounds or in school buildings, with specified exceptions. The bill mandates that by September 1, 2025, each school district board of education must adopt a policy governing cellular telephone use during school hours, which will prohibit all cellular telephone use by students during the instructional day, except as outlined in the bill or permitted under the building's emergency management plan. Additionally, the bill allows for the use of cellular devices for health concerns if a physician provides a written statement.

Furthermore, the bill requires that comprehensive emergency management plans be developed by school administrators, which must include protocols for addressing student use of cellular telephones during emergencies. The bill emphasizes the importance of safety and communication during emergencies, ensuring that students and parents are informed of the procedures in place. The existing sections of the Revised Code that are being amended are repealed, indicating a significant update to the regulations governing cellular telephone use in schools and emergency management protocols.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3313.753
As Reported By Senate Committee: 3313.753, 5502.262
As Passed By Senate: 3313.753, 5502.262