Bill > S404

This bill establishes a comprehensive approach to understanding and addressing mobile device usage in elementary and secondary schools through two primary mechanisms. First, the bill requires the Surgeon General to conduct a nationwide study within two years, examining how mobile devices impact student learning, academic achievement, mental health, classroom instruction, and overall school climate. Second, the bill creates a pilot program administered by the Secretary of Education to award grants to local educational agencies for creating "school environments free of mobile devices" by purchasing secure containers and lockers to store student mobile devices during school hours. The pilot program will select participating schools that can provide insights into mobile device restrictions, with specific provisions allowing exemptions for health monitoring, students with disabilities, and English learners. Local educational agencies must engage students, parents, and educators in the selection process and ensure communication systems remain in place for emergencies and parent-student contact. The bill defines key terms like "mobile device" and "school hours" and requires parental notification and feedback before implementing the program. The study's findings will be reported to Congress, and the pilot program is authorized $5 million in funding for fiscal years 2025-2029, with up to 2% of funds allocated for administrative expenses and data collection.

Health and Social Services

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/404/all-info