Bill > SB368

This bill requires each county board of education in Maryland to develop and implement a comprehensive policy limiting student cellular phone use during instructional time by the 2026-2027 school year. The policy mandates that students must store their phones securely and cannot use them during class, except in specific circumstances such as addressing health issues documented in an individualized education program (IEP), monitoring a student's health condition, responding to emergency events, or when an educator specifically directs phone use for educational purposes. The policy must include disciplinary measures for violations, starting with an initial warning, and these measures will be enforced by school administrators. The bill specifically defines "instructional time" as any period during the school day excluding lunch periods, and additionally requires county boards to prohibit access to certain social media applications and websites during school hours. The legislation will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving school districts ample time to develop and implement these new cellular phone restrictions.

Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0368?ys=2025RS