Senate Bill 29 mandates that all school boards in Wisconsin adopt a policy by July 1, 2026, to prohibit 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 include other exceptions if deemed beneficial for student education or well-being.

The bill amends current 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. The policy may also stipulate consequences for violations, such as confiscating a student's device for the remainder of the school day. This legislative effort aims to enhance the learning environment by minimizing distractions caused by wireless communication devices during instructional time.

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