summary
Introduced
02/07/2025
02/07/2025
In Committee
03/21/2025
03/21/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Amends the School Code. Provides that, on or before the 2026-2027 school year, each school board shall adopt and implement a wireless communication device policy that: (1) prohibits a student from using a wireless communication device during instructional time, except as otherwise provided; and (2) includes guidance for secure and accessible storage of wireless devices during instructional time. Provides that the policy may not prohibit a student from using a wireless communication device during instructional time: (1) when a teacher or instructor has authorized the student to use a wireless communication device for educational purposes; (2) in an emergency or in response to an imminent threat to the health or safety of an individual; (3) when a licensed physician determines that the possession or use of a wireless communication device is necessary for the health or well-being of the student; or (4) to fulfill an Individualized Education Plan or a Section 504 plan developed under Section 504; or (5) when the wireless communication device is necessary for students who are English learners to access learning materials. Prohibits a district from enforcing the policy through fees, fines, the deployment of a School Resource Officer, or local law enforcement officer. Requires each school board to review the effectiveness of its wireless communication device policy at least every 3 years.
AI Summary
This bill requires all school boards in Illinois to develop and implement a comprehensive wireless communication device policy by the 2026-2027 school year, which broadly defines these devices as portable technologies capable of communication, including cell phones, tablets, laptops, gaming devices, and wearable technology like smart watches. The policy must prohibit student device usage during instructional time, with specific exceptions that include: teacher-authorized educational use, emergency situations, medical necessity verified by a physician, accommodations for students with Individualized Education Plans or Section 504 plans, and access to learning materials for English learners. Importantly, the bill prohibits schools from enforcing this policy through monetary penalties or involving school resource officers or local law enforcement. Additionally, each school board must review and assess the effectiveness of their wireless communication device policy at least every three years, ensuring ongoing evaluation and potential refinement of the policy. The bill aims to minimize classroom distractions while maintaining flexibility for legitimate educational and safety needs.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (6)
Michelle Mussman (D)*,
Fred Crespo (D),
Margaret Croke (D),
Jen Gong-Gershowitz (D),
Tracy Katz Muhl (D),
Janet Yang Rohr (D),
Last Action
Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz (on 03/25/2025)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=3488&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104 |
| BillText | https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/104/HB/10400HB3488.htm |
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