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Bill > HB781


NH HB781

Requiring school districts to adopt policies establishing a cell phone-free education.


summary

Introduced
01/23/2025
In Committee
05/08/2025
Crossed Over
04/11/2025
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill requires school districts to adopt policies governing student cell phone use in schools.

AI Summary

This bill requires school districts in New Hampshire to develop and implement policies that restrict student cell phone use during class instruction, with specific provisions to ensure that students with unique needs are not unduly disadvantaged. The policy mandates that cell phone use be limited during classroom time, but allows for exceptions determined by the superintendent or their designee, particularly for students with medical needs (such as those using insulin pumps or glucose sensors), students with disabilities who require devices as specified in their Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 plan, and emergent multilingual students who need electronic devices to support their language access programs. The bill aims to create a more focused learning environment while maintaining flexibility for students with special requirements, and it is set to take effect on July 1, 2025. The legislation recognizes that while cell phones can be a distraction in educational settings, they can also be critical tools for some students' learning and health management, thus requiring a nuanced approach to their use in schools.

Committee Categories

Budget and Finance, Education

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Ought to Pass: Motion Adopted, Voice Vote; OT3rdg; 05/15/2025; Senate Journal 13 (on 05/15/2025)

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