UT HB0042

Prohibits students from using cellphones, smart watches, AI glasses, and emerging technologies during classroom hours, with exceptions for emergencies, SafeUT Crisis Line access, IEP/504 accommodations, and medical necessities

Directs the Cybersecurity Commission to establish minimum cybersecurity standards for local education agencies (LEAs) aligned with frameworks from NIST and the Center for Internet Security, with phased implementation timelines based on LEA size and resources

Requires LEAs to report data breaches to the Utah Cyber Center within 24 hours and notify the State Board of Education, with mandatory participation in statewide cybersecurity information sharing initiatives

Mandates coordination among the Utah Cyber Center, State Board of Education, and Utah Education and Telehealth Network (UETN) to provide technical assistance, training resources, and incident response support to LEAs

Adds two LEA cybersecurity employees (one from a charter school, one from a school district) to the Cybersecurity Commission; bill takes effect May 6, 2026