State House committee passes "Bell to Bell, No Cell" bill

House Passes "Bell to Bell, No Cell" Legislation Through First Oversight Committee

OKLAHOMA CITY (Feb. 10th) – The House Education Oversight Committee today passed legislation that prohibits the use of cell phones by students during the school day.

The legislation is the first bill to be heard and considered in the House's new two-tiered committee structure and is expected to be heard on the floor later this week.

Chairman of the House Appropriations Education Subcommittee Chad Caldwell authored House Bill 1276 to eliminate distractions in the classroom and improve student academic outcomes. The bill would require Oklahoma school boards to adopt policies prohibiting cell phone use on campus before the start of the next school year. Personal electronic devices, including smartwatches, are also included under the measure.

"We have all seen the data and research showing the alarming effects of cell phone use among young students, and we have to take a stand against something we know is harming our kids' academic outcomes and mental health," said Caldwell, R-Enid. "I am thankful for the support of my caucus to make this a top priority this session, as evidenced by the speed at which we are hearing this legislation. Our kids and teachers deserve a phone-free environment at school."

The legislation requires that any policy prohibiting cell phone use must also include a provision for emergency use, including items used for medical issues. The bill also leave it up to the local district how it chooses to implement the cell phone ban.

"What makes sense for my high school that graduated 33 students in Depew Oklahoma is not what likely will make sense for Oklahoma City Public Schools," said House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow. "This bill protects local control while also allowing kids to be kids and teachers to teach when at school. The House, Senate and Governor are all aligned that this is a priority and we are moving forward quickly to give districts time to communicate with parents and students ahead of this change next school year."

Under HB1276, school boards could choose to allow student cell phone use but the policy must be approved annually. The bill unanimously passed the House Education Oversight Committee 9-0 and will next be considered on the full House floor.