Bill > HB1276

This bill requires Oklahoma school district boards to adopt a policy prohibiting students from using cell phones and personal electronic devices during the entire school day and while on school grounds, starting with the 2025-2026 school year. The bill defines cell phones as portable wireless telephone devices and personal electronic devices as any device capable of connecting to networks, including smart watches, laptops, and tablets (excluding school-issued devices). While the general policy mandates a prohibition, school districts have the option to vote annually to allow limited device usage. The policy must include exceptions for emergency use, such as supporting documented medical needs. The bill provides clear definitions of key terms like "school day" (from first to final bell) and specifies that the new law will become effective on July 1, 2025. An emergency clause is included, which allows the act to take immediate effect upon passage, highlighting the perceived importance of addressing student device usage in educational settings.

Education

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1276&Session=2600