Bill > HB65

This bill requires the Alabama State Board of Education to develop a comprehensive model policy by January 1, 2026 that prohibits public K-12 students from using electronic communication devices (such as cell phones, tablets, and computers) during the school day, with specific exceptions for emergencies, health care management, and uses outlined in a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 plan. Local school boards will be mandated to adopt and implement a policy that reflects the state board's model policy by the beginning of the 2026-2027 school year. The bill defines an electronic communication device as a privately owned, portable wireless device capable of communication, explicitly excluding devices owned by the school district. This legislation replaces previous more permissive language about student device use and removes the previous provision that allowed for student suspension as the sole disciplinary action. The bill is set to take effect on June 1, 2025, giving schools and districts time to prepare for the new policy requirements.

Education

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