Bill > SB229

This bill establishes the Cell Phone Lockable Bag Pilot Program, a state initiative designed to address student distractions and potential safety concerns in schools by providing grants to schools for purchasing secure bags to store cell phones during school hours. Under the program, participating school entities must develop and implement a policy prohibiting cell phone use during school time, requiring students to store phones in lockable bags, with exceptions for medical necessities. Schools selected for the pilot program will be required to track and report changes in student mental health, bullying incidents, violence, and academic performance over two school years. The committee overseeing the program will develop a uniform reporting method and submit a comprehensive report to the Governor and General Assembly, ensuring that no individual student information is disclosed. The program will have specific definitions for "cell phone lockable bag" and "school entity," and will include various types of educational institutions. Grants will be awarded based on fund availability and aimed at geographic diversity across the state. The pilot program is set to expire on December 1, 2026, giving schools and policymakers time to evaluate its effectiveness in improving the school environment.

Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=229