Bill > H959

This bill introduces several key changes to education policy in North Carolina. First, it requires local school boards to adopt comprehensive internet safety policies that limit students' internet access to age-appropriate content, protect student safety online, prevent unauthorized data access, and prohibit social media platform use except for specific educational purposes. Second, the bill mandates social media and mental health education for students, with instruction provided at multiple grade levels covering topics such as the negative mental health effects of social media, online misinformation, personal security, cyberbullying, and methods to identify and report suspicious online behavior. Third, the bill establishes regulations for student use of wireless communication devices during instructional time, allowing device use only with teacher authorization, for educational purposes, or for specific medical or educational plan requirements. Additionally, the bill expands eligibility for residency licenses to include certain nonpublic schools that provide special education services and allows schools with long-term accreditation suspensions to apply for reaccreditation after two years instead of the standard four. These provisions aim to enhance student safety, digital literacy, and educational oversight, with most provisions set to take effect by January 1, 2026, and apply to the 2026-2027 school year.

Education, Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H959