Technology (Telecommunications)

Amends the Search and Seizure Article of the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1963. Provides that telecommunications carriers shall return all electronic instruments, articles, or things within 36 hours if the search warrant was issued pursuant to an investigation of a forcible felony.

Amends the School Code. Provides that, on or before the 2026-2027 school year, each school board shall adopt and implement a wireless communication device policy that: (1) prohibits a student from using a wireless communication device during instructional time, except as otherwise provided; and (2) includes guidance for secure and accessible storage of wireless devices during instructional time. Provides that the policy may not prohibit a student from using a wireless communication device during instructional time: (1) when a teacher or instructor has authorized the student to use a wireless communication device for educational purposes; (2) in an emergency or in response to an imminent threat to the health or safety of an individual; (3) when a licensed physician determines that the possession or use of a wireless communication device is necessary for the health or well-being of the student; or (4) to fulfill an Individualized Education Plan or a Section 504 plan developed under Section 504; or (5) when the wireless communication device is necessary for students who are English learners to access learning materials. Prohibits a district from enforcing the policy through fees, fines, the deployment of a School Resource Officer, or local law enforcement officer. Requires each school board to review the effectiveness of its wireless communication device policy at least every 3 years.

Creates the Secure Telecommunications Act of 2025. Provides that all critical telecommunications infrastructure located within or serving the State shall be constructed so as not to include any equipment manufactured by a federally banned corporation or any equipment banned at the federal level. Provides that all critical telecommunications infrastructure located within or serving the State shall be constructed so as not to include any equipment manufactured in or by a foreign adversary, a state-owned enterprise of a foreign adversary, or a company domiciled within a foreign adversary. Provides that the Illinois Commerce Commission shall establish a registration system for telecommunications providers. Provides for a registration fee. Sets forth requirements for registration of telecommunications providers. Provides for a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and not more than $100,000 for any telecommunications provider who violates the Act or knowingly submits a false registration form. Provides that any telecommunications provider that fails to comply with a portion of the Act is prohibited from receiving any State or local funds, including funds from the Illinois Telecommunications Universal Service Fund, for the development or support of new or existing critical telecommunications infrastructure and is also prohibited from receiving any federal funds subject to distribution by State or local governments for the development or support of new or existing critical telecommunications infrastructure. Effective July 1, 2025.

Amends the School Code. Provides that, no later than August 1, 2025, all school boards shall adopt a policy that: (1) prohibits a student from using personal wireless communication devices during instructional time; and (2) prevents student access to social media platforms through the use of Internet access provided by a school district. Allows a school board to prohibit student use of personal wireless communication devices during instructional time through any method it deems appropriate. Requires a school board to create exceptions to the policy for students to use wireless communication devices for certain reasons, and allows a school board to create other exceptions. Requires a school board to impose appropriate discipline or other sanctions against any student who violates these provisions. Requires a school district to post the policy publicly on its website. Allows the State Board of Education to adopt any rules that are necessary for the administration of the provisions. Effective immediately.