House approves bill letting school districts set in‑school phone policies after weeks of debate

The Colorado House on Feb. 21 approved House Bill 11 35, a measure that directs school districts to adopt policies addressing student use of personal communication devices during school hours.

The bill does not impose a statewide ban; rather it instructs local districts to develop and adopt policies. Supporters said the rules will help classroom focus and address mental-health concerns linked to social media and device use. Representative Lukens, who presented the bill, cited studies and testimony from students and educators describing the negative effects of frequent device use in school settings.

Committee testimony and floor debate emphasized local control: many school leaders told the committee they wanted a clear state signal so districts could adopt policies without facing political pushback. Representative Caldwell, a committee member and charter-school board member, said the policy made a “night-and-day” difference at her school after implementation.

Opponents cautioned about blanket approaches and urged that districts retain flexibility to carve out exceptions for instructional needs, extracurricular activities and individual student circumstances. The House adopted the committee-reported version and advanced the bill toward final action.

If enacted, districts would develop and publish their device policies and enforce them locally; the bill leaves details of disciplinary or implementation mechanics to local boards. Supporters and opponents said they expected ongoing local debate as districts write policies that suit classroom needs and parental expectations.