NJ S3299

Establishes the "Distraction Free Schools Grant Program" in New Jersey to provide competitive grants to public schools for limiting student cell phone and social media use during school hours and school-sanctioned events.

Appropriates $2 million from the General Fund to the Department of Education to fund the program.

Requires the Department of Education to develop best practices including age-appropriate policies, cell phone storage options (pouches, lockers), network-based social media restrictions, and communication protocols for families and staff.

Mandates exceptions for emergencies, students with documented health needs, and accommodations required under IEPs or Section 504 plans.

Requires grant recipients to submit annual reports on policy impacts regarding academic achievement, student behavior, absenteeism, and bullying, with the Commissioner submitting a comparative effectiveness report to the Governor and Legislature.