AL HB81

State Board of Education must adopt a model policy by January 1, 2026 prohibiting K-12 students from possessing or using electronic communication devices during classroom instructional time.

Model policy must include exceptions for emergencies, health care management, teacher-authorized educational use, and accommodations required under IEPs or Section 504 plans.

Model policy must include a discipline scale with escalating penalties for violations and fines for students who repeatedly violate the policy, along with additional penalties such as warnings, device confiscation, and parental contact.

Each local board of education must adopt and implement a local policy by the 2026-2027 school year requiring devices to be stored in student lockers or designated classroom areas during instructional time and reflecting the state board's model policy.

Local boards may establish discipline standards that exceed the minimum standards set in the state model policy.