The proposed bill aims to improve student outcomes by restricting the use of mobile devices in public schools during instructional hours. The legislature recognizes the negative impact of mobile devices on learning, including distractions and mental health issues, particularly in the wake of challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. To address these concerns, the bill mandates the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to study and implement strategies for limiting mobile device use, starting with a two-year pilot program in selected schools. The findings from this research will inform recommendations for effective policies and procedures to be adopted by school districts by the 2027-28 school year.

Additionally, the bill requires the Washington State School Directors' Association to develop a model policy for restricting mobile device use, which must be publicly available by February 15, 2027. Each school district is then tasked with adopting a policy consistent with this model by the beginning of the 2027-28 school year. The bill also clarifies that these restrictions will apply to charter schools and state-tribal education compact schools. The overall goal is to create a more focused and engaging learning environment for students while addressing the challenges posed by mobile device usage in educational settings.