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FL S1296

FL S1296
Use of Wireless Communications Devices in Schools


summary

Introduced
02/26/2025
In Committee
03/06/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
06/16/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

An act relating to use of wireless communications devices in schools; requiring the Commissioner of Education to coordinate with school districts selected by the Department of Education to implement a policy for a specified school year prohibiting the use of cell phones while on school grounds or engaged in certain activities off school grounds; requiring the department to provide a report to the Legislature before a specified date; providing requirements for the report; requiring that the report include a model policy that school districts and charter schools may adopt; requiring that the report and model policy address the authorized use of cell phones and electronic devices during the school day by certain students; requiring that the report include specified student code of conduct provisions; providing an effective date.

AI Summary

This bill requires the Commissioner of Education to work with six school districts representing small, medium, and large counties to develop and implement a comprehensive policy prohibiting student cell phone use during the entire school day, both on school grounds and during school activities. The Department of Education must submit a report to legislative leaders by December 1, 2026, analyzing the policy's impact on student achievement and behavior. The report must also include a model policy for school districts and charter schools, which provides specific exceptions for cell phone use by students with disabilities, English Language Learners, those with medical needs, and during emergencies, as well as on school buses and during extracurricular activities. Additionally, the bill mandates that the report outline student code of conduct provisions for policy violations, including potential consequences for illegal behavior, bullying, academic dishonesty, and inappropriate recording of students. The policy is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, giving schools time to prepare and implement the new guidelines.

Committee Categories

Health and Social Services

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

Died in Children, Families, and Elder Affairs (on 06/16/2025)

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