Bill > B26-0073

This bill requires local education agencies (LEAs) in the District of Columbia to create and implement a policy prohibiting K-12 students from possessing personal wireless communication devices (like cell phones, tablets, or laptops) during the entire school day, starting in the 2026-2027 school year. The policy must include specific provisions such as establishing consequences for policy violations, creating a process to assess and refine the policy, publishing the policy on the school's website at least 15 days before the school year, and communicating the policy to families and school employees. LEAs can create exemptions for educational purposes or managing student health care needs, and must develop procedures for how parents can communicate urgent information to students and how schools will communicate during emergencies. The Office of the State Superintendent of Education is required to develop a model policy by March 1, 2026, to help LEAs implement these requirements. The bill aims to minimize student distractions and improve learning environments by restricting personal device usage during school hours, while still maintaining flexibility for essential communication and health-related needs.

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0073