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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Ch. SL 2025-382025-07-01

Vote Breakdown

Plain Language Summary

This bill makes five main changes to North Carolina education: it requires schools to adopt internet safety policies limiting student access to age-appropriate content and social media; mandates social media literacy instruction in elementary, middle, and high schools; requires schools to establish policies restricting wireless device use during class time; allows certain nonpublic special education schools to request residency licenses for teachers; and permits criminal justice education programs suspended for at least four years to reapply for accreditation after two years instead of waiting longer.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue this bill protects student safety and mental health by reducing exposure to inappropriate online content, cyberbullying, and predatory behavior, while teaching critical digital literacy skills.
• •They contend that limiting phone use during class improves focus and academic performance, and that the teacher licensing flexibility helps nonpublic special education schools recruit qualified educators.
• •Proponents view these measures as necessary safeguards for young people navigating an increasingly digital world.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents may argue that broad restrictions on wireless devices limit student access to educational tools and emergency communication, and that enforcement could burden teachers and administrators.
• •Some raise concerns about the scope of internet filtering potentially blocking legitimate educational resources, and question whether school policies can effectively address complex issues like social media addiction that require family and societal involvement.
• •Critics may also view the criminal justice accreditation provision as potentially lowering standards by allowing reapplication earlier than originally required.