Bill

Bill > SB2427


IL SB2427

IL SB2427
SCH CD-WIRELESS COMM DEVICE


summary

Introduced
02/07/2025
In Committee
06/01/2025
Crossed Over
04/09/2025
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

Potential new amendment
104th General Assembly

Bill Summary

Amends the School Code. Provides that, on or before the 2026-2027 school year, each school board (and each charter school beginning with the 2026-2027 school year) shall adopt and implement a wireless communication device policy that (i) at a minimum, prohibits a student from using a wireless communication device during instructional time, except as otherwise provided, and (ii) incorporates guidance for secure and accessible storage of wireless devices during instructional time or directs the school district superintendent or his or her designee to provide such guidance. Provides that the policy may not prohibit a student from using a wireless communication device during instructional time (i) if 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 and the student uses the wireless communication device as prescribed by the licensed physician, (ii) to fulfill an individualized education program or a plan developed under the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, or (iii) if the wireless communication device is necessary for students who are English learners to access learning materials. Provides that the policy may allow for certain exceptions. Prohibits a school district or charter school from enforcing the policy through fees, fines, or the deployment of a school resource officer or local law enforcement officer. Requires a school board or charter school to review its policy at least once every 3 years and make any necessary and appropriate revisions to the policy. Provides that a school district or charter school shall publicly post the policy on its website. Provides that if the school district or charter school does not operate a website, then the school district or charter school shall provide a copy of the policy to the parents or guardians of every enrolled student.

AI Summary

This bill amends the School Code to require all school boards and charter schools to develop and implement a wireless communication device policy by the 2026-2027 school year. The policy must prohibit students from using wireless communication devices (such as cell phones, tablets, laptops, gaming devices, and wearable tech) during instructional time, with specific exceptions. These exceptions include using devices for medical purposes as prescribed by a physician, fulfilling individualized education programs or rehabilitation plans, and helping English learners access learning materials. The policy may also allow device use when authorized by school personnel or during emergencies. Schools are prohibited from enforcing the policy through fees, fines, or involving law enforcement. Each school board must review and update their policy every three years and make it publicly available on their website or provide a copy to parents if no website exists. The bill defines "instructional time" as the period when students are learning and participating in school activities, excluding recess, passing time, and lunch time. Notably, the policy does not apply to devices issued by the school for educational purposes.

Committee Categories

Education

Sponsors (31)

Last Action

Added as Co-Sponsor Sen. Paul Faraci (on 03/04/2026)

bill text


bill summary

Loading...

bill summary

Loading...
Loading...