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 uses authorized by teachers for educational purposes. School boards are also permitted to include other 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 potential consequences for violations, such as confiscation of the device for the remainder of the school day. It also updates section 119.04 (1) to include this new provision among the applicable laws for first-class city school districts. Overall, the legislation aims to create a structured approach to managing the use of technology in educational settings while allowing for necessary flexibility in specific situations.

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