The bill H.830 aims to establish the right for students, or their parents or guardians, in public and approved independent schools to opt out of using electronic devices as part of their education. It mandates that each school district and approved independent school create policies that outline the process for exercising this right, alternative educational methods for students who opt out, and ensures that no student will face discrimination or penalties for choosing to refuse electronic device usage. Additionally, the bill protects teachers from being dismissed, suspended, or otherwise penalized for teaching without electronic devices.
The bill includes several findings that support its purpose, highlighting research indicating that digital approaches to education may not be more effective than traditional methods and that increased use of technology in classrooms has coincided with declines in student achievement. It also references concerns about data collection practices associated with educational technology. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.