HI HB1343

Requires the Board of Education to establish a "phone-and-related-devices-free, bell-to-bell policy" for public schools beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, with implementation allowed in phases by school level.

Bans student use of cell phones and related devices including smart watches, earbuds, AirPods, Bluetooth connected headphones, and smart glasses during school hours.

Findings indicate cellphone use in classrooms decreases student focus, academic performance, and learning retention, while also reducing in-person socialization critical to student wellbeing.

Notes that at least 19 states have passed laws or enacted policies banning or restricting student cellphone use in schools statewide.

Declares student cellphone and related device restrictions during school hours to be a matter of statewide concern in Hawaii.