Requires public school districts and charter schools to prevent student use of electronic personal communications devices during regularly scheduled instructional activities

HB 854 requires all public school districts and charter schools to create written policies prohibiting students from using personal electronic devices (like phones or tablets) during regular class time. The policy must include disciplinary steps for violations, allow exceptions for emergencies, teacher-directed learning, or students needing accommodations under federal disability laws (IDEA, ADA, or Rehabilitation Act). Schools must publish these policies online and ensure staff following the rules are protected from liability. This directly affects all K-12 schools in the state and their students during instructional hours.