(Whiteland, IN) – Governor Mike Braun on Wednesday ceremonially signed Senate Enrolled Act 78, a new “bell-to-bell” cell phone restriction.
Braun says the aim of the new law is strengthen Indiana’s school cell phone policies to help students focus, support teachers, and improve the classroom environment.
The measure was authored by State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond). He represents Senate District 27, which includes a portion of Franklin County.
Braun says SEA 78 builds on Indiana’s existing restrictions on student device use by setting a clearer standard for limiting cell phones, smartwatches, gaming devices, and other personal wireless communication devices during the school day.
The law includes exceptions for emergencies, students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 plans, and medical needs.
“This takes the onus off of the teacher, essentially, and puts it on the administration, so that the teachers don’t have to be the main stalwart in the process,” Raatz said. “But in a perfect world, no cell phone will get past the front door of the school.”
“We’ve made major progress improving education for Hoosier students, and this new ‘bell-to-bell’ restriction on cell phone distractions will ensure students are focused on learning,” the governor said. “This law supports teachers in the classroom and helps students build better habits at a time when constant distraction is affecting learning and mental health, with common-sense exceptions for emergencies.”
Under SEA 78, Indiana schools will be required to update their wireless communication device policies to limit student use of personal devices during the school day.
The law also directs the Indiana Department of Education to provide model policy language and implementation guidance for schools.
Wednesday’s ceremonial signing took place at the Clark-Pleasant Community School Corporation Central Office in Whiteland.
(Network Indiana contributed to this story)
