COLUMBUS, Ohio-House Bill 250, heading to the governor’s desk with unanimous approval from both chambers, mandates public schools in Ohio to adopt cell phone use policies during school hours. Representative Beryl Brown Piccolantonio stressed its importance for students and staff.
The bill allows local districts discretion in policy creation, supported by Minority Leader Allison Russo. The Department of Education and Workforce will provide a model policy. Governor DeWine advocated for cell phone bans previously. The bill contains provisions unrelated to cell phones, including funding for adoption grants.
Representative Tom Young is sponsoring a separate bill focusing on internet safety and social media education. He critiques the Senate’s rushed approach, emphasizing the need for public input and considering all aspects, including after-school programs. He plans to continue refining his bill regardless of HB250’s fate.
https://www.newsbreakapp.com/n/0sv3HbV0?pd=0ECah7n4&lang=en_US&s=i6&send_time=1715301865
