HB 419

For the 2025-2026 school year and each school year thereafter , this bill requires each local education agency (LEA) and public charter school to prohibit a student enrolled in the LEA or public charter school from displaying, using, or accessing an electronic device during the school day unless the el ectronic device is (i) p rovided to the student by the LEA or public charter school , (ii) a uthorized for use during the school day pursuant to the policy adopted by the local board of education or public charter school governing body , or (iii) b eing used by a student who has a disability for the operation of assistive technology to increase, maintain, or improve the student's functional capabilities, or pursuant to a student's individualized education program (IEP) . This bill requires each local board of e ducation and public charter school governing body to develop and adopt a policy to effectuate this bill . Such a policy (i) m ay categorically ban the use of certain electronic devices in designated areas , (ii) m ay establish an exception to the general proh ibition in certain situations, such as emergency situations, and in certain areas, and (iii) m ust establish a process by which parents will be contacted in the event of an emergency or possible emergency occurring at the school at which the parent's studen t is enrolled to ensure that the absence of, or restricted access to, electronic devices during the school day does not prevent parents from receiving notice of an emergency. Each LEA and public charter school must submit its policy to the department of e ducation no later than July 31, 2025.