Prohibit the use of electronic devices for learning in all classrooms grades 3 and below
Summary
House Bill 2741 would add a new section to West Virginia’s education code prohibiting the use of individual electronic devices, including laptops, computers, and tablets, for learning and testing in classrooms for students in grade three and below. The bill applies to all classrooms for those grades and is framed as a restriction on device-based instruction and assessment rather than a broader ban on school technology.
The measure is narrowly focused on early elementary education and would require schools and teachers to avoid using personal or individual electronic devices for instructional or testing purposes in grades 3 and under. The bill does not create a detailed enforcement scheme, exceptions, or implementation timeline in the text provided, but it would become part of the state’s education code if enacted.
Impact
If enacted, HB2741 would amend West Virginia Code by adding §18-2E-3g and would limit how schools use technology in early elementary classrooms. It would affect public school districts, teachers, administrators, and students in grade three and below by restricting classroom use of laptops, computers, tablets, and similar devices for learning and testing. The bill would likely require schools to adjust instructional practices, curriculum delivery, and assessment methods for the affected grades.
Sentiment
The available record shows no committee transcript, vote tally, or recorded debate, so there is no direct evidence of support or opposition from legislative discussion. Based on the bill’s introduction and referral status, the measure appears to reflect a policy preference for reducing screen use in early grades, but the public or legislative sentiment cannot be determined from the provided materials. No votes or amendments are listed.
Contention
Because there are no transcripts or votes provided, specific points of contention are not documented. Potential areas of disagreement, based on the bill’s subject, would likely include whether technology should be limited in early childhood education, whether the restriction could hinder digital literacy or accessibility, and whether schools should retain flexibility to use devices for instruction or testing in lower grades. However, no named legislators, committees, or stakeholder groups are identified in the record as taking those positions.