Senate Bill 29 mandates that all school boards in Wisconsin adopt a policy by July 1, 2026, prohibiting the use of wireless communication devices during instructional time. The bill defines a "wireless communication device" as any portable device capable of voice, messaging, or data communication, explicitly including cellular phones, tablet computers, laptop computers, and gaming devices. Additionally, the bill requires that the policy includes specific exceptions to this prohibition, such as for emergencies, health care management, uses outlined in individualized education programs, and educational purposes authorized by teachers. School boards are also permitted to establish further exceptions if deemed beneficial for student education or well-being.

The bill amends existing statutes by adding a new section, 120.12 (29), which outlines the requirements for the wireless communication device policy, including the definition of such devices and the necessary exceptions. It also modifies section 119.04 (1) to include this new provision among the applicable laws for first-class city school districts. The policy may also stipulate consequences for violations, such as confiscation of the device for the remainder of the school day.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 119.04(1), 119.04