The EEE Committee Session held on January 29, 2025, focused on two significant legislative proposals: the Maryland Phone Free School Act and amendments to military veterans' education laws.

The Maryland Phone Free School Act, introduced as Senate Bill 368, aims to limit cell phone use among students during instructional hours. The bill mandates that each county board of education create a policy requiring students to store their phones securely throughout the school day, with exceptions for documented health issues or educational purposes. Supporters, including the Maryland State Education Association, which represents 75,000 educators, argue that excessive phone use contributes to students' difficulties in concentrating and completing assignments. The bill also addresses concerns about bullying, particularly regarding the identification of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) who may need phones for emergencies.

Senator Watson, who presented the bill, emphasized the need for students to focus during instructional time and mentioned various county implementations, including a stringent policy in Caroline County that uses locked pouches to restrict phone access. The committee is expected to review the bill further, with hopes of consolidating it with related proposals.

The second major discussion centered on Senate Bill 137, which seeks to update the law regarding high school diplomas for veterans. Currently, the law specifies certain conflicts, such as World War II and Vietnam, but the proposed amendment would generalize the language to include all military conflicts. This change aims to simplify the process for veterans returning to complete their education. Additionally, there is a proposal to remove the requirement of an honorable discharge for obtaining a diploma, which is being considered for amendment.

The committee's discussions reflect ongoing efforts to address educational challenges in Maryland, particularly concerning the impact of technology on learning and the support for veterans in completing their education. Further deliberations on these bills are anticipated in upcoming sessions.