OH HB485

Internet Safety Policy Requirement: School districts must adopt and file an internet safety policy by the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year that limits student access to age-appropriate materials, protects safety in electronic communications, prohibits unauthorized computer access, restricts social media platform access (except for teacher-directed educational use), and prohibits TikTok use on district devices and platforms.

Personal Wireless Device Restrictions: Students cannot use personal wireless communication devices (phones, tablets, laptops, gaming devices, smartwatches, headphones) during instructional time except when a teacher permits it for educational purposes, during emergencies, or for health management, or when included in a student's individualized education program.

Social Media Effects Curriculum: Grades 6-12 must receive instruction on the social, emotional, and physical effects of social media, including mental health impacts, misinformation, behavioral manipulation, permanency of online sharing, cyberbullying, predatory behavior, human trafficking, and reporting mechanisms.

Compliance for All School Types: The requirements apply to traditional public schools, community schools, STEM schools, and college-preparatory boarding schools through amendments to Ohio Revised Code sections.

Effective Date: The internet safety policy and device restrictions take effect immediately; the January 1, 2025 amendments continue specific provisions for community schools.