Texas Lawmakers Pass Bill Banning Devices at School

A Texas bill heading to Gov. Greg Abbott's (R) desk would require all school districts to adopt device-free policies for students during school hours. The bipartisan bill (HB-1481), which the state Senate passed Tuesday, also applies to "open-enrollment charter schools." Districts must adopt disciplinary procedures for students who violate the policy. The bill would also give schools the ability to dispose of any confiscated devices after providing a student's parents with 90 days' notice. Students with individualized education programs, a documented medical need or other safety reasons would be exempt. The policy would take effect Sept. 1.