INDIANA— Effective today, students in Indiana will no longer be able to use their cell phones during instructional time in classrooms.
Senate Bill 185 was passed during this legislative session. Senators Jeff Raatz and Stacey Donato authored the bill, co-authored by Senators John Crane, James Buck, Lonnie Randolph, and Linda Rogers. The bill was sponsored by Representatives Julie McGuire, Mitchell Davis, and Tonya Pfaff.
According to the new law, cell phones, tablets, laptops, and gaming devices cannot be used in classrooms unless for educational purposes. The exceptions include if someone needs them due to a disability, medical issue, or an emergency.
Students can use the tech:
- If a teacher allows it for educational purposes during instructional time.
- For example, if a student needs to manage their health care, such as blood sugar monitoring.
- In the event of an emergency. The law does not define what constitutes an emergency.
- If the use of the device is included in their Individualized Education Program or 504 plan.
Lawmakers say the goal is to improve classroom behavior and social skills.
“We have a problem with kids paying attention in school,” State Rep. Julie McGuire. “Testing scores continue to go down, we have too many distractions in life, and social media takes over our kids’ lives.”
School boards must establish rules and post them on their districts’ websites. School districts will determine any potential consequences for students who violate it.
Education groups that supported the new law include the Indiana State Teachers Association, the American Federation of Teachers, the Indiana School Boards Association, and the Indiana Association of School Principals.
