RSD Cell Phone Laws

At Russellville School District we pride ourselves on implementing the safety and well-being of our Students, Staff and Families. In order to keep our community safe, below are Laws and Policies pertaining to the use of cell phones on and off school campuses.

Fewer Distractions Mean Safer Driving Act
§ 27-51-1609 - Restrictions in school zones.

(a) Except as provided under subsection (b) of this section, a driver of a motor vehicle shall not use a handheld wireless telephone while operating a motor vehicle when passing a school building or school zone during school hours when children are present and outside the building.

(b) A driver of a motor vehicle who is passing a school building or school zone during school hours when children are present and outside the building may use a handheld wireless telephone while operating a motor vehicle for an emergency purpose.

(c) This section does not apply to law enforcement officers.

Students are responsible for conducting themselves in a manner that respects the rights of others. Possession and use of any electronic device, whether district or student owned, that interferes with a positive, orderly classroom environment does not respect the rights of others and is expressly forbidden.

Paul's Law: To Prohibit Drivers of Motor Vehicles from Using Handheld Wireless Telephones to Engage in Text Messaging
§ 27-51-1504 - Use of a handheld wireless telephone when driving.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b) of this section, a driver of a motor vehicle shall not use a handheld wireless telephone for texting while operating a motor vehicle.

(b)(1) A driver of a motor vehicle may use a handheld wireless telephone for wireless interactive communication in emergencies.

(2) A person performing his or her official duties as a certified law enforcement officer, firefighter, ambulance driver, or emergency medical technician is exempt from the requirements of this section.

§ 27-51-1604 - Restrictions on drivers at least 18 but under 21 years of age.
(a)(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, the driver of a motor vehicle who is at least eighteen (18) but under twenty-one (21) years of age shall not use a handheld wireless telephone for wireless interactive communication while operating a motor vehicle.

(2) The driver of a motor vehicle who is at least eighteen (18) but under twenty-one (21) years of age may use a hands-free wireless telephone or device for wireless interactive communication while operating a motor vehicle.

(b) A driver of a motor vehicle who is at least eighteen (18) but under twenty-one (21) years of age may use a handheld wireless telephone for wireless interactive communication while operating a motor vehicle for an emergency purpose only.

§ 27-51-1603 - Restrictions on drivers under 18 years of age.
(a) Except as provided under subsection (b) of this section, a driver of a motor vehicle who is under eighteen (18) years of age shall not use a wireless telephone for wireless interactive communication while operating a motor vehicle.

(b) A driver of a motor vehicle who is under eighteen (18) years of age may use a wireless telephone for wireless interactive communication while operating a motor vehicle for an emergency purpose only.