House Bill 2003 aims to regulate the use of personal electronic devices, such as cell phones and tablets, in West Virginia classrooms. The bill establishes a new section in the Code of West Virginia, specifically 18-2-46, which outlines the negative impacts of personal electronic devices on the classroom environment, including distractions and mental health concerns. It mandates that county boards of education develop policies to limit the use of these devices during instructional time, with specific definitions provided for terms like "Personal Electronic Device," "Instructional Day," and "Classroom Setting."

The bill also sets forth minimum requirements for these county policies, including whether personal electronic devices will be allowed on school property, procedures for storing them, and exemptions for students with documented needs. Additionally, it outlines consequences for policy violations, such as penalties and confiscation of devices, and requires documentation of violations in the West Virginia Education Information System. The bill emphasizes the importance of communication between parents and schools regarding acceptable use and aims to promote a focused learning environment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-2-46
Committee Substitute: 18-2-46
Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute: 18-2-46
Engrossed Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute: 18-2-46
Enrolled Version: 18-2-46