U.S. States Push for School Cellphone Restrictions

Several U.S. states are considering or implementing legislation to restrict or ban cell phone use in schools amid growing concerns over classroom distractions. Sarasota County's school board aims to enhance enforcement of existing phone use policies without imposing a total ban. Missouri lawmakers are proposing stricter cell phone restrictions, citing evidence of improved student engagement, while Oklahoma's House Committee advanced a bill to ban phones and smartwatches in schools. In Kentucky, a Jefferson County board member is pushing for policy changes to limit classroom phone access due to potential impacts on learning and violence. Wisconsin legislators introduced a bill that mandates school boards to limit wireless devices with provisions for emergencies and educational purposes. These initiatives reflect a nationwide trend to balance educational needs with technological distractions.