New Law Bans Cellphones During Instructional Time in Indiana Schools

School corporations and charter schools are required to adopt and implement a wireless communication device policy.

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INDIANAPOLIS – A bill that would ban cellphone use during class time has been passed into law.

Senate Bill 185 requires each school corporation and charter school to adopt and implement a wireless communication device policy that governs student use of a wireless communication device.

The new law prohibits use of a wireless communication device during instructional time. That includes a cellular telephone and gaming devices. Tablets and laptop computers are also off limits during instructional time unless authorized by a teacher to allow the student to use the device for educational purposes only.

Students are allowed to use a wireless communication device in the event of an emergency or to manage the student’s health care.

Each school corporation and charter school will be required to publish on its website their wireless communication device policy.

Bill author Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond) made the following statement regarding the legislation:

"Cellular devices can be distracting for anyone, especially students learning fundamental skills in the classroom," Raatz said. "Senate Enrolled Act 185 ensures our students are paying attention to lessons being taught in the classroom instead of their phones."