Bill > HB1160

This bill establishes new regulations for personal electronic device usage in North Dakota public schools during instructional time. The bill defines key terms such as "instructional time" (which includes the entire school day from start to dismissal), "personal electronic communication device" (including smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and gaming devices), and "school" (public schools providing pre-kindergarten through secondary education). School districts must adopt policies that require students to silence, turn off, and securely lock away personal electronic devices during instructional time, ensuring the devices are completely inaccessible. The policy must include enforcement provisions and allow students to contact parents using school telephones if needed. The bill provides exceptions for devices necessary for medical reasons or required by individual education programs. Schools are also mandated to collect annual data measuring the policy's impact on student behavior, mental health, disciplinary incidents, attendance, and academic performance, with the superintendent of public instruction required to establish a uniform reporting system by July 1, 2026. The goal is to minimize distractions and potential negative impacts of personal electronic devices during educational time while preserving necessary accommodations for students with specific needs.

Education

https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/bill-overview/bo1160.html