House Bill 26-014

This bill prohibits the use of personal electronic devices by students during the school day in compulsory education settings, beginning in the 2026–2027 academic year. The bill is intended to reduce classroom distractions, improve student engagement, and support effective instructional environments by limiting the use of personal devices such as cellular phones and smart watches during instructional time.

Under the bill, students enrolled in compulsory education may not use personal electronic devices while on school grounds or participating in school-sponsored instructional activities. Devices must be powered off and stored in accordance with school district policies during instructional hours. Schools retain authority to determine storage procedures and enforcement methods consistent with statewide requirements.

The legislation allows for several exceptions, including the use of school-issued or authorized devices for educational purposes, accommodations required under individualized education programs or medical needs, and limited use authorized by teachers or administrators. Emergency use for safety purposes is also permitted.

The Department of Education is directed to provide implementation guidance to school districts, which must adopt or update local policies prior to the start of the 2026–2027 academic year.