The Governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, signed the HB 1105 law, which significantly expands the restrictions on the use of cell phones in the schools of the State.
According to Telemundo 51, the new regulation, which was approved by the Legislature on May 2nd and will come into effect on July 1, 2025, modifies and strengthens previous legislation that prohibited students from using cell phones during school hours.
The HB 1105 establishes that in primary and secondary schools in Florida, the use of cell phones will be prohibited throughout the entire school day.
A pilot program will also be established in six counties that will prohibit the use of cell phones in high schools during school hours.
The House of Representatives voted 85-14 in favor of passing the bill, while the Senate supported it with a vote of 26-5, reflecting a broad consensus in the Legislature.
Key changes in education and charter schools
The HB 1105 law also introduces changes that could benefit charter schools. Now, these educational centers will receive a proportional share of the funds from the local government's additional infrastructure tax, if school districts collect money for this purpose. The share will be calculated based on school enrollment.
In addition, the new regulations will facilitate the conversion of traditional public schools into charter schools. While previously a majority approval from parents and faculty was necessary, the law removes the requirement for teacher support, making this transition easier.
Part of a larger legislative package
HB 1105 is part of a package of eight education laws that Governor DeSantis signed on May 30, including initiatives on educator preparation, student mental health, and other aspects of the state education system.
Among them are projects such as CS/SB 1102 (School Readiness Program), CS/CS/HB 875 (Educator Preparation), and CS/CS/HB 969 (Reporting of Student Mental Health Outcomes).
It is worth noting that on January 1, 2025, legislation came into effect in Florida that prohibits access to social media for those under 14 years old.
The measure aims to protect children's mental health and give parents greater control over their children's online activity.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Ban on Cell Phone Use in Florida Schools
Why is the use of cell phones prohibited in Florida schools?
The prohibition on the use of cell phones in Florida schools, established by law HB 1105, aims to improve academic performance of students by reducing distractions and also seeks to decrease issues such as cyberbullying and the use of social media during school hours.
What changes does law HB 1105 bring for charter schools in Florida?
The HB 1105 law facilitates the conversion of traditional public schools into charter schools by removing the requirement for teacher support and allows these schools to receive a proportional share of local government infrastructure tax funds, calculated based on school enrollment.
What pilot programs will be implemented in Florida regarding the cell phone ban?
A pilot program will be established in six counties that will prohibit the use of cell phones in high schools during school hours, as part of the implementation of law HB 1105 in Florida.
What other education laws did Ron DeSantis sign along with HB 1105?
Ron DeSantis signed an eight-bill education package, which includes initiatives on educator preparation, student mental health, and other aspects of the state’s education system, such as the school readiness program (CS/SB 1102) and educator preparation (CS/CS/HB 875).
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