Salina Public Schools Reviewing Cell Phone Policy Changes Only After Final Bill Language

Salina Public Schools says it is not taking action yet on the recently advanced Kansas legislation dealing with student cell phone use during the school day, and will instead wait until the bill’s final language is available before making any decisions locally.

In a statement to Salina311, USD 305 Communications Director Olivia Opat said the district is monitoring the issue but has not yet moved toward implementation.

“We will wait until the final draft of the bill is provided before taking any actions on the recently passed substitute for HB 2299 concerning the use of student cell phones,” Opat said.

According to Opat, once the final version of the bill is available, Salina Public Schools will review its requirements and determine whether any local policy changes are needed.

“Salina Public Schools will at that time assess the requirements of the bill’s provisions and work to develop any necessary changes to student policies and guidance materials to ensure that all district staff and students are in full compliance with the change in law,” she said.

Overview of HB 2299

The current version of HB 2299 would require students’ personal electronic devices, including cell phones, to be turned off and securely stored during the school day, with the device not kept on the student’s person. The proposal is commonly described as a “bell-to-bell” restriction, meaning the limits would apply throughout the full school day rather than only during class time.

The stated goal of the legislation is to reduce distractions, improve student engagement, and address concerns tied to social media use and student mental health.

Under the bill, the requirements would apply to public school districts, community colleges, and accredited nonpublic schools. The measure also includes language aimed at protecting school districts and employees from liability if a stored device is lost or damaged. The proposal does not apply to virtual schools.

HB 2299 has passed both chambers of the Kansas Legislature and is now headed to the governor’s office.

It is also worth noting that HB 2299 did not begin as a school cell phone bill. Earlier in the 2025 legislative session, the bill number was attached to a separate proposal focused on antisemitism and religious discrimination in public educational institutions. That earlier version was later replaced with the current cell phone restriction language, because apparently even bill numbers get recycled now.