Relating to a policy of a school district concerning possession or use of a telecommunications device by a student.
Impact
If enacted, HB3018 will provide school districts with greater authority to regulate telecommunications devices within educational settings. This legislation is intended to support a conducive learning environment by minimizing distractions from personal devices that could disrupt classroom dynamics. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for notifying parents about confiscated devices, thereby promoting transparency in communication between schools and families regarding student behavior and policy enforcement.
Summary
House Bill 3018 aims to amend the Education Code concerning school district policies on the possession of telecommunications devices by students. The bill allows school boards to enforce policies that prohibit students from having such devices on school property or during school-related activities. In addition to establishing prohibitive measures, the bill permits school districts to impose disciplinary actions against students who violate these policies. Importantly, the bill outlines the process for the confiscation of devices and the conditions under which these devices may be reclaimed by students or parents.
Contention
Critics of HB3018 may argue that the bill encroaches on student rights regarding personal property and could lead to overreach by schools in regulating student behavior beyond reasonable limits. The potential for disciplinary measures to be applied inconsistently across different districts may also lead to concerns over fairness and equity in how policies are implemented. Opponents may voice worries that such regulations could disproportionately affect students based on arbitrary enforcement of rules related to technology use within educational institutions.
Relating to the protection of minors from harmful, deceptive, or unfair trade practices in connection with the use of certain digital services and electronic devices, including the use and transfer of electronic devices to students by a public school.
Relating to school district grace period policies and the provision of meals to public school students with insufficient balances on prepaid meal cards or meal accounts.
Relating to the possession or use of marihuana or e-cigarettes on or near public school property or at certain school events; creating a criminal offense.