Bill > SB160

This bill requires all New Mexico school districts and charter schools to develop and implement a comprehensive policy for student use of wireless communication devices (such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and gaming devices) by August 1, 2025. The Public Education Department must provide guidelines for these policies, which must include key provisions: prohibiting device use during instructional hours, allowing teachers to permit educational device use, enabling device use during emergencies or for health management, supporting accessibility technologies, protecting student privacy, establishing rules for non-instructional hour use, and outlining consequences for policy violations. Schools must hold a public meeting to gather input on their proposed policy and must publish the final policy on their website. Additionally, schools are required to annually evaluate their policy's effectiveness, report findings to the department, and provide training for teachers, administrators, and staff on policy implementation. The bill emphasizes that students cannot be prevented from using devices for medical necessities, disability accommodations, or as specified in their individualized education program. The policy will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving schools time to develop and prepare their specific guidelines.

Education

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=160&year=25