Bill > S55

This bill requires public school units in North Carolina to establish and implement a comprehensive policy regulating students' use of wireless communication devices during instructional time. The bill defines wireless communication devices broadly to include cellular telephones, tablets, laptops, paging devices, two-way radios, and gaming devices. Schools must prohibit students from using, displaying, or having these devices turned on during instructional time, with specific exceptions: devices may be used when authorized by a teacher for educational purposes or emergencies, when required by a student's individualized education program or 504 plan, or to manage a documented medical condition. Each school unit must establish consequences for policy violations, which may include device confiscation and disciplinary actions. Furthermore, schools are required to submit their wireless communication policy to the Department of Public Instruction by September 1st of the implementation year and any time the policy changes. The Department must then report to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee about school units' compliance. The bill will become effective immediately but will apply starting with the 2025-2026 school year, giving schools time to develop and implement their policies.

Education, Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S55