The Alabama Senate handed down final approval for a ban on cellphones during school hours in public schools, according to reporting from the Alabama Reflector.
HB 166 requires local school boards adopt policies for students to store cellphones during class hours. It’s headed to Gov. Kay Ivey’s desk after passing handily.
A proposed amendment allowing students to use phones to contact parents or legal guardians was struck down.
Students can have their phone under three exemptions: if they study under an Individualized Education Plan allowing for phone usage, for teacher-approved instruction and for medical purposes.
End Abortion Alabama has released attacks on Rep. Paul Lee (R – Dothan) over a bill concerning in vitro fertilization (IVF), but fellow Rep. Ernie Yarbrough (R – Trinity) is coming to Lee’s defense, calling the attacks “destructive.”
Yarbrough filed multiple bills, including Prenatal Equal Protection Act, on personal choice and pro-life issues. The legislation was taken to Lee, who chairs the Health Committee, according to Yellowhammer News.
“Lee reached out to me to offer an amendment that would make IVF a standalone issue and separate from my bill,” Yarbrough said Wednesday in a statement. “I chose not to move forward at this time because of concerns around IVF legislation that we passed last session and how that affected the personhood discussion.”
Lee has faced a number of attacks from special interest groups accusing him of being in favor of abortion.
“There have subsequently been groups that have sent out emails to legislators or spread information accusing Chairman Lee of murder,” Yarbrough said. “This is patently false as well as destructive to a good cause and his sincere efforts regarding this legislation.”
Yarbrough said he plans to address IVF more in the future, saying he believes it should be part of separate legislation.
“There is a proper and professional way for elected officials and citizens to engage in the legislative process. I ask that you cease and desist these attacks on Rep. Lee,” Yarbrough said.
