H.R. 4006: Mission Utilize No Phones in Learning to Unleash Growth in Grades and Educate Distraction-free Act

This bill, known as the "Mission Utilize No Phones in Learning to Unleash Growth in Grades and Educate Distraction-free Act" or "Mission UNPLUGGED Act," aims to establish a policy that prohibits the use of cellular phones and other distracting electronic devices by students in schools operated by the Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) during regular school hours.

Policy Overview

The key points of the bill regarding the policy are as follows:

• The Director of DODEA is required to prohibit the use of covered electronic devices, which include cell phones and potentially other personal electronic devices that may distract students.
• Individual school administrators will have some flexibility in enforcing this policy and determining the appropriate methods for their specific schools.
• There must be procedures in place so that parents and students can communicate during emergencies.

Exceptions to the Policy

This policy will include specific exceptions where students may use covered electronic devices:

• In emergency situations.
• On school grounds outside regular school hours, such as when waiting for transportation or during extracurricular activities.
• For students with medical or health conditions requiring device use, as certified by a healthcare provider.
• For students with disabilities if their need for a device is documented in their individualized education program (IEP) or under similar policies.
• For English learners who may need device use to assist with their education.
• Any other cases deemed appropriate by the Director of DODEA.

Consultation and Implementation

In creating this policy, the Director must consult with:

• The Chief Academic Officer and District Superintendents of DODEA.
• School Advisory Committees from DODEA schools.

The policy must be implemented within 180 days of the bill's enactment and will apply to school years starting after the policy's establishment.

Support for Implementation

The Director is authorized to provide support to schools for implementing the policy. This could include:

• Purchasing lockboxes for storing electronic devices during school hours.
• Other assistance as determined necessary by the Director.

To fund these initiatives, $1,207,500 is authorized for appropriation for fiscal year 2026.

Annual Reporting

Within one year after the policy takes effect, and annually for the next four years, the Director must submit a report to Congress detailing:

• How the policy has been implemented.
• The costs associated with implementation.
• Effects on student performance, mental health, teacher and student retention, and other relevant outcomes.

Definitions

The bill defines:

• "Covered electronic devices" as cellular phones, smartphones, and any other distracting devices deemed appropriate for prohibition.
• "Director" as the head of the Department of Defense Education Activity.
• "English learner" as per the definition in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.
• "Individualized education program" as defined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

Relevant Companies

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