A new law that could reshape how New Jersey schools manage technology has just cleared the Senate, setting the stage for statewide rules that will limit cellphone use during the school day.
Bill Overview
Senate Bill 3695, also known as A4882, requires the Department of Education to develop statewide guidelines on student use of internet-enabled devices. The legislation mandates that each public school’s governing body adopt a policy covering phones and social media during regular school hours, on school buses, and at school-sanctioned events. The bill establishes a framework for schools to address the growing presence of personal devices in classrooms.
Senate Passage
The Senate passed the bill on Monday, moving it forward in the legislative process. The vote cleared a key hurdle, and the measure now awaits the governor’s signature before it can become law. The passage reflects growing concern among lawmakers about the impact of constant digital distractions on learning.
Sponsor Perspective
Assemblywoman Rosy Bagolie, one of the bill’s sponsors, said, “I am proud that the New Jersey General Assembly passed A4882, legislation I sponsored alongside Assembly colleagues Cody Miller and Carmen Theresa Morales to address the impact of cell phones and internet-enabled devices in our schools. As both a legislator and a longtime school administrator, I have seen firsthand how constant notifications, group chats, and social media disrupt instruction, heighten anxiety, and pull students’ attention away from learning.” Bagolie’s statement highlights the personal and professional experience that shaped the bill’s focus.
Governor’s Position
Governor Phil Murphy must sign the bill to enact it. He has previously expressed support for guidelines that restrict cellphones in classrooms during the school day, describing them as a distraction. His endorsement signals a potential alignment between the executive and legislative branches on technology policy in education.
Local District Example
The Cherry Hill school district already enforces its own ban on student cellphone use. The district’s policy is an example of how individual schools are beginning to regulate device usage ahead of statewide guidelines. The new bill could standardize such measures across the state.
Implementation Timeline
Following the bill’s passage, the Department of Education will draft the required guidelines. Each public school’s governing body will then adopt the policy, ensuring consistency across districts. The timeline for final adoption depends on the governor’s signature and the DOE’s development schedule.
Potential Impact
The legislation addresses concerns about constant notifications, group chats, and social media disrupting instruction, heightening anxiety, and pulling students’ attention away from learning. By establishing clear rules, schools may see reduced distractions, improved classroom focus, and a more controlled digital environment.
Key Takeaways
- New Jersey Senate approves bill mandating statewide guidelines on student device use.
- The bill requires each school to adopt a policy covering phones and social media during school hours, on buses, and at sanctioned events.
- Governor Murphy’s support could expedite the bill’s enactment, while districts like Cherry Hill already have bans in place.
The new law marks a significant step toward regulating technology in New Jersey classrooms, aiming to create a more focused learning environment for students across the state.
