SB213 Alabama 2010 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Arthur OrrSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2010

Title

Cellular phones, pocket pagers, and electronic communication devices, violations of school policy, local boards of education authorized to develop policy of confiscation, Sec. 16-1-27 am'd.

Summary

The bill would let local school boards create policies about confiscating students' electronic devices and set rules for when and how they can be taken and returned.

What This Bill Does

It authorizes each local board of education to develop a policy regarding confiscation of pocket pagers, cellular phones, and other electronic devices used by students. The policy may specify that on the first violation the device is confiscated, the parent or guardian is notified, and the device is not returned to the student but may be returned only to the parent or guardian. Existing rules about carrying devices and supervision remain, and violations can lead to student suspension. The act would take effect on the first day of the third month after it is passed and approved by the Governor.

Who It Affects

• Students/pupils who carry or use electronic devices under school policies and could have devices confiscated or suspended for violations
• Local boards of education that may adopt and enforce device confiscation policies

Key Provisions

• Authorizes local boards to adopt a policy regarding confiscation of pocket pagers, cellular phones, and other electronic devices.
• Policy may provide that on the first violation the device is confiscated, parent/guardian notified, and the device is not returned to the student but may be returned only to the parent/guardian.
• Maintains existing authority for suspension of students who violate school policy.
• Effective date: the first day of the third month after enactment and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Education