KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — More than a month before the start of the legislative session, Tennessee lawmakers filed a bill that would restrict the ways students can use devices in schools.
The bill, HB 0013, was introduced by Republican Representative Scott Cepicky. It would require school districts across the state to pass policies prohibiting students from using devices during instructional time. The bill's definitions of "wireless communication device" would include cell phones, tablets and laptops.
It would also let students use any of those devices if they are included in their individualized education plans, which are often implemented for students with disabilities, as well as active 504 plans.
According to the bill, students would also be able to use devices if teachers give them permission, or if there is an emergency. Students would also be able to use their cell phones or other devices to manage their health.
The bill would also specifically allow schools to withhold students' devices during instructional time if they do not follow policies.
If approved, the bill would go into effect on July 1, 2025, and would apply to the 2025-2026 school year. The next legislative session in Tennessee is expected to begin on Jan. 14, 2025.
NBC affiliate WSMV said at least eight states already have rules in place on how students can use devices in schools.
“Fostering an environment of student engagement and focus during instructional periods is essential to a quality education,” Cepicky said, according to WSMV. “Cell phone usage in the classroom presents an unnecessary distraction for students and is unfair to the hard-working teachers who are passionate about educating the next generation. This legislation will limit interruptions and empower Tennessee’s children to concentrate on learning, which can improve social skills, mental health and academic performance.”
A few East Tennessee schools have also crafted policies restricting student cell phone use. Morristown-Hamblen West High School requires students to keep devices inside their bags, and Emerald Academy locks students' devices inside magnetized pouches.