Pennsylvania State House, Bill 363 was introduced into the Education Committee last week. The bill reads:
Section 1317.1. Possession of [Telephone Pagers] Electronic Devices Prohibited.–
(a) The possession by students of telephone paging devices, commonly referred to as beepers, cellular telephones and portable electronic devices that record or play audio or video material shall be prohibited on school grounds, at school sponsored activities and on buses or other vehicles provided by the school district.(b) The prohibition against beepers and cellular telephones contained in subsection (a) shall not apply in the following cases, provided that the school authorities approve of the presence of the beeper or cellular telephone in each case:
(1) A student who is a member of a volunteer fire company, ambulance or rescue squad.
(2) A student who has a need for a beeper or cellular telephone due to the medical condition of an immediate family member.Section 2. This act shall take effect in 60 days.
How can anyone even remotely think this is appropriate? Be sure to sign the petition and spread the word that this is legislation that sets back educational reform.