Kansas House Bill HB2641

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Refer: 1/31/24
• Failed: 4/30/24

Caption

Requiring school districts to prohibit the use of privately owned electronic communication devices during school hours.

Impact

If enacted, HB2641 will significantly impact school policies across the state regarding how students engage with technology during school hours. By instituting these prohibitions, the bill aligns with ongoing efforts to manage the distractions posed by personal devices in learning environments. Schools will need to revise existing policies and methods to ensure compliance with this new law, potentially resulting in more consistent disciplinary measures for students who violate these rules. The differentiated approach to exemptions for certain students could lead to discussions on equity and accessibility for students with specific needs.

Summary

House Bill 2641 proposes a new regulation concerning the use of privately owned electronic communication devices within school environments. Specifically, the bill mandates that each school district's board of education must develop and enforce policies that prohibit students from using such devices during normal school hours. This includes prohibitions on use during passing periods and in classrooms, aiming to minimize distractions for students and maintain a focused educational atmosphere. However, the bill does outline certain circumstances under which the use of these devices may be permitted, such as for specialized educational programs or with prior authorizations by teachers or administrators under specific conditions.

Contention

There may be contention surrounding the limitations imposed by HB2641, particularly regarding the balance between regulating distractions and respecting students' rights to access technology for educational purposes. Critics might argue that such regulations could interfere with students' ability to utilize their devices as learning tools. Moreover, concerns may arise about the enforcement of discipline and how schools will ensure that the policies are applied fairly and effectively. Establishing criteria for when exceptions can be made—as in situations of health concerns or emergencies—could also lead to debates over the adequacy of provisions in the law.