House Bill 2043
I have introduced legislation that would implement a policy to prohibit students from possessing or using personal mobile devices, such as cell phones and tablets, during the school day in our public schools.
My legislation would require students, upon entering the school building, to deposit the personal mobile device in a school-provided lockbox, or a case or pouch with a locking device. The student may retrieve the mobile device during lunch periods and at the end of the school day.
The term “mobile device” does not include school-issued electronic devices, and the legislation provides exceptions to the prohibition for students who:
• are members of a volunteer fire company, ambulance or rescue squad.
• have a medical condition or have an immediate family member with a medical condition.
• have a disability.
• are English learners and use the device for translation purposes.
• are at a scheduled lunch period.
The legislation would also require public school entities to have a written policy, if not already in place, that includes a process for students and parents to contact each other during the school day if necessary.
See the following article on the legislation published by the Pittsburg Post Gazette here.