Requests that the state Department of Education study and report relative to the impact of the law banning student possession of telecommunications devices during the instructional day
Summary
House Resolution 98 urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Education to study the effects of Act No. 313 of the 2024 Regular Session, which prohibits student possession of telecommunications devices during the instructional day. The resolution does not change the underlying cellphone/device ban itself; instead, it asks the department to evaluate how the law is working statewide, with particular attention to student performance and other outcomes that may be attributable to the restriction.
The resolution specifically notes that the original device-ban law passed with strong bipartisan support and had backing from education stakeholders, including the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Louisiana Federation of Teachers. At the same time, it acknowledges that some people opposed the law or questioned whether it was necessary, and it highlights concerns raised by students in Vernon Parish about safety, health, and other practical issues related to being unable to access cell phones during the school day. The superintendent of education may report the study’s findings to the resolution’s author orally or in writing.
Impact
HR 98 has no direct regulatory effect on schools, students, or local education agencies; it creates a legislative request for the Department of Education to study an existing law and report on its impact. Its practical effect is to prompt review of Act No. 313’s implementation and consequences, potentially informing future amendments to the telecommunications-device ban or related school policy. The affected parties are the Department of Education, public schools, students, parents, and educators subject to the underlying device restriction.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment around HR 98 appears supportive and measured. The resolution passed the House unanimously, 90-0, indicating broad agreement with the idea of studying the law’s effects rather than immediately changing it. The text also reflects a balanced tone: it recognizes the original ban’s strong support while acknowledging that some concerns remain and that student feedback should be considered.
Contention
The main point of contention is not the resolution itself but the underlying ban on student possession of telecommunications devices during the instructional day. Supporters view the law as a positive classroom-management and educational measure, while critics argue it may be unnecessary or unadvisable and raise concerns about student safety, health, and access to communication. The resolution responds to those concerns by asking for a statewide study, which suggests that the debate centers on whether the ban improves student performance enough to justify its drawbacks.
Resolves that a committee be appointed to notify the House of Representatives that the Senate has convened and organized and is prepared to transact business.
Resolves that a committee be appointed to act with a similar house committee to notify the governor that the legislature has convened and organized and is prepared to receive his communications.