Bill > HB0013

This bill requires local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools in Tennessee to create and implement a comprehensive policy regulating students' use of wireless communication devices during school hours. The policy must generally prohibit students from using devices like cell phones, tablets, laptops, and gaming devices during instructional time, with specific exceptions: teachers can allow device use for educational purposes, students can use devices in emergencies or to manage health conditions, and students with individualized education programs (IEPs) or 504 plans can use devices as outlined in their plans. The bill defines a wireless communication device as a portable device capable of voice, messaging, or data communication, excluding devices with communication capabilities restricted by software. Additionally, the bill allows teachers to withhold a student's wireless communication device for the duration of instructional time if the student does not comply with the school's device policy. Schools must publish their wireless communication device policy on their websites, and the law will take effect on July 1, 2025, applying to the 2025-2026 school year and subsequent years.

Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0013&ga=114