IL SB2427

School boards, charter schools, and Chicago Public Schools must adopt and implement wireless communication device policies by the 2026-2027 school year that prohibit student use of cell phones, tablets, laptops, gaming devices, and smart watches during instructional time

"Instructional time" is defined as time spent learning and participating in school activities, excluding recess, passing time, and lunch; devices issued by schools for educational purposes are exempt from the prohibition

Mandatory exceptions must allow device use for students with physician-prescribed medical needs, those with IEPs or Section 504 plans, and English learners who need devices to access learning materials

Policies may permit additional exceptions for school-authorized educational use and during emergencies as outlined in school crisis response plans

Schools cannot enforce the policy through fees, fines, or involvement of school resource officers or law enforcement; policies must be reviewed every 3 years and posted on school websites or distributed to parents