H.R.4005 - Utilize No Phones in Learning to Unleash Growth in Grades and Educate Distraction-free Schools Grant Act of 2025; UNPLUGGED Schools Grant Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 4005, the UNPLUGGED Schools Grant Act of 2025, aims to amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 by establishing a grant program. This program would provide funding to state educational agencies to support public schools in implementing policies that restrict student use of personal electronic devices during school hours. The goal is to minimize distractions and enhance the learning environment.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would lead to a widespread adoption of policies restricting cell phone use in schools, with exceptions for health, disability, or instructional needs. States would receive funding to acquire secure storage solutions for electronic devices. The bill also emphasizes the need for schools to maintain communication channels between parents and students for essential matters.
Potential Benefits 4/5
- Improved Focus: Reduced distractions from electronic devices could lead to better student concentration and academic performance.
- Enhanced Social Interaction: Limiting device use may encourage more face-to-face interaction and social skills development.
- Equitable Learning Environment: By reducing reliance on personal devices, the bill could create a more level playing field for students without access to the latest technology.
- Funding for Storage: Grants would help schools acquire secure storage for devices, addressing practical concerns about device safekeeping.
- Clear Communication Protocols: The bill requires schools to maintain communication channels between parents and students for important matters.
Potential Disadvantages
- Restriction of Personal Freedom: Students may perceive the policy as an infringement on their personal freedom and autonomy.
- Administrative Burden: Implementing and enforcing the policy could create additional administrative burdens for schools and staff.
- Potential for Circumvention: Students may find ways to circumvent the policy, rendering it less effective.
- Exclusion Concerns: While exceptions are included, some students may feel unfairly excluded if their specific needs are not adequately addressed.
- Cost of Storage: While grants are provided, the long-term costs of maintaining secure storage solutions could strain school budgets.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment 4/5
The bill's alignment with the U.S. Constitution is primarily concerned with the balance between promoting education (implied within the general welfare clause) and potentially infringing upon individual liberties (Amendments I and IV). The bill does not appear to violate any specific constitutional provision, as it allows for exceptions and does not target any protected class. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, and education is traditionally an area of state control, though federal funding can influence state policies.
The bill's focus on education aligns with the broader goal of promoting the general welfare, as stated in the Preamble. However, the potential for infringing on student's personal freedoms needs to be carefully considered to ensure compliance with constitutional principles.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).