Bill > HB192

This bill requires each county board of education in Maryland to establish a policy restricting student cellular phone use during school hours, with different rules for elementary/middle schools and high schools. For elementary and middle school students, the policy prohibits cellular phone use during instructional time, lunch periods, and passing periods, while high school students are prohibited from using phones during instructional time and passing periods. The policy includes exceptions for students with individualized education programs, Section 504 plans, or documented health issues that require electronic device use. Violations are addressed through a progressive discipline approach: the first violation results in a warning, the second in phone confiscation (to be retrieved by a parent or guardian), and subsequent violations lead to additional disciplinary actions determined by the county board. If parents cannot retrieve the confiscated phone, the school must return it to the student at the end of the school day. The law defines "instructional time" as any time during the school day except lunch, and "passing period" as the time between classes when students move through the school building. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0192?ys=2025RS