Bill > SB0078

This bill amends existing law regarding wireless communication device policies in Indiana schools, defining "school day" as the entire time a student is present for instruction and introducing "school sanctioned wireless communication device" for approved instructional use, though this definition expires in 2028. It clarifies that "wireless communication device" includes smartwatches connected to cellular networks or the internet, but excludes certain unobtrusive audio recording devices used for educational note-taking. The bill mandates that schools adopt policies either prohibiting all devices or requiring them to be stored and powered off throughout the school day, with exceptions for individualized education programs, Section 504 plans, documented medical conditions, emergencies, and language translation for multilingual learners. It also requires the Department of Education to provide model policy language and guidance, and importantly, grants schools and their personnel immunity from civil liability for good-faith actions taken to comply with these policies, unless such actions involve gross negligence or willful misconduct.

Education

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2026/bills/senate/78/details