A Florida bill would prevent students from using cell phones, or any other device not issued by the school from “Bell to Bell.”
A current bill prohibits phone use during instructional hours, however, the new bill would extend to the entire campus while school is in session.
HB 949, a general bill by Demi Busatta, Republican for District 114 is heading up the bill.
The bill reads in part: Wireless Communications Devices on School Grounds: Prohibits students from using wireless communications devices during school day, rather than during instructional time; requires district school boards to designate locations within school buildings for students to use wireless communications devices during school day. Use of Wireless Communications Devices in Schools; Requiring the Commissioner of Education to coordinate with school districts selected by the Department of Education to implement a policy for a specified school year prohibiting the use of cell phones while on school grounds or engaged in certain activities off school grounds; requiring the department to provide a report to the Legislature before a specified date; providing requirements for the report, etc.
Effective Date
July 1, 2025
The bill would apply to grades K-12.
Busatta said studies show when cell phones are removed from school campuses there not only is an increase in learning but also a decrease in bullying.
