Bill > HB1559

This bill, effective July 1, 3000, prohibits students in Hawaii's public schools from using "telecommunication devices" – which are defined as any electronic device that can connect to the internet or a cellular network and transmit or receive communications, including phones, smartwatches, and tablets – on school grounds during the "instructional day," meaning the entire school day from start to finish. However, exceptions are made for instructional or educational purposes with direct permission from a teacher or administrator, for documented medical needs, during school-wide emergencies to protect health and safety, or when required by a student's individualized education program or disability accommodations. If a student violates this rule, their device will be immediately confiscated and stored securely by the school, and further disciplinary action may follow for repeat offenses. The confiscated device will only be released to the student's legal parent or guardian, who has three months to retrieve it after receiving at least three notifications from the school; if not retrieved within this period, the device will be considered forfeited to the school. Schools, teachers, and administrators will not be held liable for lost or damaged confiscated devices, provided reasonable steps are taken to secure them.

Education, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1559&year=2026