Bill > HB0041

This bill requires local school boards and public charter schools in Tennessee to create and implement a comprehensive policy regarding wireless communication devices (such as cell phones, tablets, laptops, and gaming devices) for students. The policy must mandate that students in kindergarten through 8th grade keep their devices completely turned off and stowed away during the entire school day, while high school students must do the same during instructional time. The bill provides several exceptions to this rule, including allowing teachers to permit device use for educational purposes, allowing students to use devices to monitor health concerns with a healthcare provider's prescription, and permitting device use for students with specific individualized education programs (IEPs) or 504 plans. Additionally, the policy must establish a process for contacting parents during school emergencies. The bill will take effect immediately and will apply to the 2025-2026 school year and subsequent school years, with the goal of minimizing classroom distractions and maintaining an effective learning environment.

Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0041&ga=114