Establishes pilot program in DOE to use lockable cell phone pouches in certain public schools; appropriates $500,000.

This bill establishes a one-year pilot program in New Jersey public schools for students in grades 6-12 to test lockable phone pouches. School districts must apply with details about their schools and emergency notification plans, and the state will select six districts (two per region) representing urban, suburban, and rural areas. The program is funded by $500,000 from the General Fund to assess impacts on student focus and mental health. A report evaluating the pilot’s effectiveness and recommending next steps must be submitted to lawmakers within 120 days of the program’s conclusion.