New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3901

Introduced
12/5/24  

Caption

Requires school districts to include instruction on risks associated with social media and cell phone addiction in grades 6 through 12.

Impact

By requiring this instruction in public high schools, S3901 addresses growing concerns about the adverse effects of social media and cell phone usage among youth, particularly in relation to mental health and personal development. The bill not only aims to equip students with practical skills to navigate social media responsibly but also to raise awareness of the implications these technologies may have on their lives. The inclusion of such topics in the school curriculum aligns with a broader effort to enhance student well-being and foster a healthy learning environment.

Summary

Senate Bill S3901 aims to amend existing educational standards in New Jersey by requiring school districts to incorporate instruction related to the risks associated with social media use and cell phone addiction for students in grades 6 through 12. This legislation expands upon the current requirement, which only covers grades 6 through 8, thereby ensuring that older students also receive necessary education on responsible social media behavior and its implications on personal health and relationships. The bill mandates comprehensive teaching on the responsible use of various social media platforms, ensuring students understand the behaviors that promote cyber safety and the potential negative consequences of irresponsible use.

Contention

Although the bill has garnered support due to its proactive approach in tackling the risks associated with social media and cell phone addiction, it may face opposition from certain stakeholders who may argue about the sufficiency of such educational measures compared to the need for parental guidance and at-home education. Critics might express concerns regarding the depth and methods of instruction, questioning whether schools can adequately address these complex issues within their existing curriculum. Additionally, there might be discussions around privacy concerns and the scope of control schools should have over students' personal technology use.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ A5282

Requires school districts to include instruction on risks associated with social media and cell phone addiction in grades 6 through 12.

NJ A3918

Requires development of guidance and training to address social media in harassment, intimidation, and bullying in schools; revises student learning standards to include instruction on social media in school bullying.

NJ SB92

Public K-12 schools, cell phone policy and Internet/social media safety

NJ S3695

Requires cell phone and social media guidelines to be developed by DOE and policy to be adopted by each school district.

NJ HB166

Public K-12 schools, cell phone policy and Internet/social media safety

NJ A891

Limits requirements for school districts to include instructions on diversity and inclusion as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards to grades 9 through 12.

NJ A2720

Limits requirements for school districts to include instructions on diversity and inclusion as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards to grades 9 through 12.

NJ A4882

Requires cell phone and social media guidelines to be developed by DOE and policy to be adopted by each school district.

NJ SF370

A bill for an act relating to electronic devices in schools, including student access during instructional hours, school safety plans, and instruction related to the effects of social media in grades six through eight, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly SSB 1065.)

NJ SSB1065

A bill for an act relating to electronic devices in schools, including student access during instructional hours, school safety plans, and instruction related to the effects of social media in grades six through eight, and including effective date provisions.(See SF 370.)

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