The Florida House of Representatives unanimously passed a bill 117-0 Wednesday that would prohibit students from using cell phones during the school day.
Rep. Demi Busatta Cabrera (R-Miami) sponsored the bill (HB 949). Rep. Busatta Cabrera explained her bill on the House floor.
"This bill prohibits students from using wireless communication devices during the school day rather than just during instructional time," Busatta Cabrera said."It also requires schools to designate locations within a school building where students can use their cell phones with the permission of a school administrator."
"Cell phones not only cause constant distractions to a student's focus during the school day, which impedes their ability to learn, but it also has shown to increase bullying," Busatta Cabrera continued.
Busatta Cabrera added an amendment that would allow using wireless devices in certain circumstances and for medical reasons.
"The amendment clarifies that a school district shall adopt rules that include designing a location within a school building where a student may use their cell phone with the permission of an administrator," Busatta Cabrera said."It further clarifies that students with individualized education plans, 504 plans, and documented medical needs like diabetes will be able to use their cell phones during the school day in accordance with their plan."
Rep. Christine Hunschofsky (D-Parkland) thanked Busatta Cabrera for the amendment. Rep. Hunchofsky said a local advocate had been concerned about students with diabetes not having access to a cell phone or a smart watch to check glucose levels.
"This amendment provides for them in many ways, whether it's the 504. Even if some schools aren't following along with that, it's a doctor's note," Hunschofsky said.
The bill has no related companion in the Senate. If fully approved and signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, HB 949 would take effect on July 1.
