Signed by Governor Tony Evers

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that requires school districts to adopt cell phone ban policies in Wisconsin.

Highlights:

• Requires each state school board adopt a policy by July 1, 2026 that generally prohibits pupils from using wireless communication devices during instructional time (Sec. 2).

• Defines “wireless communication device” as a portable wireless device capable of providing voice, messaging, or other data communication between 2 or more parties. 

• Requires that this definition include the following (Sec. 2):

• Cellular phones;

• Tablet computers;

• Laptop computers; and 

• Gaming devices.

• Requires each school board include in its wireless communication device policy exceptions to the general prohibition against using wireless communication devices during instructional time for (Sec. 2):

• Emergencies and perceived threats;

• To manage a pupil’s health care;

• For a use included in an individualized education program or 504 plan; and 

• For a use authorized by a teacher for educational purposes. 

• Authorizes a school board to include other exceptions if the school board determines that doing so is beneficial for pupil education or well-being (Sec. 2).

• Specifies that the provisions of this bill shall take effect immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that requires school districts to adopt cell phone ban policies in Wisconsin.

Highlights:

• Requires each state school board adopt a policy by July 1, 2026 that generally prohibits pupils from using wireless communication devices during instructional time (Sec. 2).

• Defines “wireless communication device” as a portable wireless device capable of providing voice, messaging, or other data communication between 2 or more parties. 

• Requires that this definition include the following (Sec. 2):

• Cellular phones;

• Tablet computers;

• Laptop computers; and 

• Gaming devices.

• Requires each school board include in its wireless communication device policy exceptions to the general prohibition against using wireless communication devices during instructional time for (Sec. 2):

• Emergencies and perceived threats;

• To manage a pupil’s health care;

• For a use included in an individualized education program or 504 plan; and 

• For a use authorized by a teacher for educational purposes. 

• Authorizes a school board to include other exceptions if the school board determines that doing so is beneficial for pupil education or well-being (Sec. 2).

• Specifies that the provisions of this bill shall take effect immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text