Lawmakers Propose Cell Phone Restrictions in Schools

Legislators across several states are proposing bills to limit student cellphone use in schools, citing concerns over distractions and academic performance. In Tennessee, a bill introduced by Senators Todd Gardenhire and Dan Howell would require students in grades K-8 to keep phones off all day, while high school students would need to silence them during class. Similarly, North Dakota's House Bill 1160 aims to restrict cellphone use during instructional time, with exceptions for medical needs and emergency situations. In Alabama, Rep. Pebblin Warren's proposed legislation would mandate that students store their devices in lockers during class, reflecting similar concerns about classroom engagement. Arkansas Governor Sarah Sanders also announced her goal to ban cellphones from bell to bell in schools, moving control from districts to the state level. These initiatives highlight a growing trend among lawmakers to address the impact of technology on education.