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 each school district board of education must adopt a policy governing cellular telephone use by students during school hours by September 1, 2025. This policy must prohibit all cellular telephone use during the instructional day, except for specific circumstances outlined in the bill, such as emergencies or health-related needs, which require written documentation from a physician.

Additionally, 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 also emphasizes the importance of involving community law enforcement and safety officials in the development of these plans. The existing sections of the Revised Code that are being amended are repealed, indicating a significant update to the regulations governing student cellular telephone use and emergency management in schools.

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