H.R. 4005: Utilize No Phones in Learning to Unleash Growth in Grades and Educate Distraction-free Schools Grant Act of 2025

This bill, titled the **Utilize No Phones in Learning to Unleash Growth in Grades and Educate Distraction-free Schools Grant Act of 2025**, aims to establish a grant program called the UNPLUGGED Schools Grant Program. It is designed to encourage public schools to implement policies prohibiting the use of personal electronic devices by students during school hours. Here’s a breakdown of the key components of the bill:

Grant Program Establishment

The bill authorizes the creation of the UNPLUGGED Schools Grant Program, which will provide funding to state educational agencies. These agencies can then support public schools in adopting strict policies regarding the use of personal electronic devices during school hours.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the grants, state educational agencies must have a policy in place that:

• Prohibits students from using or possessing personal electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, during school hours.
• Allows specific exceptions for students who have health needs or disabilities that require such devices.
• Permits local educational entities to develop additional procedures for communicating with parents about time-sensitive or important issues.

Permitted Exceptions

The policy must allow exceptions, including but not limited to:

• Students with health conditions needing a mobile device as part of their treatment.
• Students with disabilities, as documented in their individualized education programs.
• English learners or students requiring devices for instructional purposes, contingent on appropriate documentation.

Use of Funds

Grant funds must be used for acquiring secure storage solutions in schools to safely store personal electronic devices. This includes lockers, secure boxes, and other methods that prevent access during school hours.

Allocation of Funds

The bill details how grants will be allocated to state educational agencies based on prior funding received under specific educational acts, ensuring that smaller states receive at least a minimal share of the funding available.

Application Process

State educational agencies will need to apply for funding, certifying that they have the required policies in place. This application may also need to demonstrate how these policies will facilitate communication with parents regarding important matters.

Authorization of Appropriations

The bill authorizes the appropriation of funds necessary to implement the program, although the specific amount is not detailed in the bill.

Definitions

Several key terms are defined in the bill, including:

• **Personal electronic device**: Encompasses mobile phones, tablets, and similar devices unless in use under specific school-authorized circumstances.
• **Secure storage methods**: Refers to means for keeping devices locked away during school hours to avoid use.
• **Public school**: Defined as any public elementary or secondary school.
• **School hours**: Refers to the operational period from the start to the end of the instructional day.

Relevant Companies

None found