The bill addresses the use of mobile devices by students in public schools, highlighting the negative impacts on learning outcomes and mental health. It emphasizes the need for schools to implement best practices for mobile device use, including the development of a bell-to-bell cell phone policy tailored to community needs by 2030. The legislation mandates the office of the superintendent of public instruction to create a web-based resource that includes research on mobile device use and strategies for responsible usage, while also amending existing definitions related to digital citizenship to include mobile devices.

Additionally, the bill requires the office of the superintendent to report on the policies and barriers faced by public schools regarding mobile device use by December 2026 and again by December 2028. These reports will provide insights into the effectiveness of current policies and offer evidence-based recommendations to support academic learning and student well-being. The section detailing these reporting requirements is set to expire on June 30, 2029.

Statutes affected:
Substitute bill: 28A.650.010, 28A.650.050