Courtesy-IN.gov
COLUMBUS, Ind. – Gov. Eric Holcomb on Monday signed Senate Enrolled Act 185 into law, mandating school districts to implement policies prohibiting various communication devices during instructional hours.
The law, slated to take effect in July, aims to address concerns regarding declining student engagement, behavior, and mental health, attributed in part to the widespread presence of cell phones in classrooms.
Advocates and lawmakers view this legislation as a pivotal step in enhancing the learning environment and refocusing students’ attention on academic pursuits. This move aligns with broader nationwide efforts to curb cell phone usage in educational settings.
Under the newly enacted law, school districts are tasked with developing and enforcing policies banning communication devices during instructional periods. This encompasses smartphones, tablets, laptops, gaming systems, and any other devices facilitating communication between individuals. The specific implementation methods will be left to the discretion of each district.
Exceptions to the ban include situations where a teacher permits device use for educational purposes, for managing healthcare needs, during emergencies, or as outlined in a student’s Individualized Education Program or 504 plan. This provision aims to balance the restriction with necessary accommodations for certain circumstances.
