Bill > HB57

This bill requires each county board of education in Maryland to develop and implement a policy that limits student cellular phone use during instructional time, which is defined as any time during the school day except lunch periods. The policy must prohibit students from using cellular phones during instructional time and require students to store their phones in a secure location such as a locker, closed backpack, or school-provided storage container. However, the policy includes important exceptions that allow students to use cellular phones: for purposes specified in their Individualized Education Program (IEP), to monitor or address documented health issues, or when an educator or administrator directs phone use for educational purposes. The policy must also outline appropriate disciplinary measures for policy violations. The legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, giving school districts time to develop and implement these new cellular phone use guidelines.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0057?ys=2025RS