RELATING TO EDUCATION.

HB485

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

H.B. NO.

485

THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2025

STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING
TO EDUCATION
.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

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SECTION 1.
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The legislature finds that the excessive use
of cell phones in public schools hinders students' learning, contributes to
disciplinary challenges, and adversely affects students' mental health.
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Research shows that unregulated cell phone use
can lead to increased anxiety, defiance, and addiction-like behaviors, creating
distractions in classrooms and impeding students' ability to focus.
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Educators across Hawaii have expressed
concerns about the lack of consistent policies, leaving schools to address this
pervasive issue independently.
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The purpose of this Act
is to
establish a statewide policy for cell phone use in all Hawaii department of
education schools to ensure clear and enforceable guidelines and foster an
environment conducive to learning.

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SECTION 2.
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Section 302A-101, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is
amended by adding new definitions to be appropriately inserted and to read as
follows:

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"
"Cell phone"
refers to any mobile communication device, including but not limited to
smartphones, tablets, and wearable communication devices.

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"School hours" refers
to the period from the start of the first class to the end of the last class on
any instructional day.
"

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SECTION 3.
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Chapter 302A, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is
amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as
follows:

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"
�302A-
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Establishment of a cell phone use policy.
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(a)
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The department shall develop and
implement a statewide policy governing cell phone use during school hours.
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Each department school shall adapt the
statewide policy to fit its specific needs and resources, provided the
adaptations are consistent with department guidelines.
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This policy shall include, but not be limited
to:

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(1)
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Guidelines
for when and how cell phones may be used, such as during emergencies or for
educational purposes explicitly approved by the teacher;

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(2)
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Restrictions
on personal use, social media, gaming, and other non-educational activities
during instructional time; and

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(3)
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Identification
of specific areas where cell phone use is permitted, such as designated breaks
or before and after school.

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(b)
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The policy shall establish clear and
consistent enforcement measures, including but not limited to:

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(1)
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Progressive disciplinary actions for
students who violate the cell phone policy;

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(2)
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Mechanisms
for parental involvement in cases of repeated violations, including required
meetings or interventions; and

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(3)
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A
system for educators to report and address noncompliance while ensuring
accountability and mutual respect between students and teachers.

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(c)
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The
department shall solicit input from parents, educators, and community
stakeholders to ensure that the policy reflects diverse perspectives and
addresses the unique needs of each department school.

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(d)
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The policy shall include a reporting
mechanism for schools to track incidents related to cell phone use, which the
department shall review annually.

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(e)
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The policy shall inform parents at
the start of each school year and acknowledge receipt of the policy in writing.

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(f)
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The policy shall include a component on
student education
on responsible digital device use, emphasizing
the importance of focus, respect, and the benefits of reduced screen time.
"

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SECTION 4.
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New statutory material is underscored.

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SECTION 5.
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This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2025.

INTRODUCED BY:

_____________________________

Report Title:

DOE; Cell
Phone Use Policy; Accountability; Reporting

Description:

Establishes a Department of Education statewide policy for
cell phone use in all department schools to ensure clear and enforceable
guidelines and foster an environment conducive to learning.

The summary description
of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is
not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.