North Dakota, Colorado Advance Cellphone Policy Bills in Schools

A growing number of states are considering or advancing legislation to establish policies on cellphone use in schools. In New Mexico, Senate Bill 11 aims to promote cellphone-free environments by providing $10 million for districts that implement restrictions like pouches and locks for students' phones. Similarly, Colorado's bipartisan bill mandates that all school districts create their own cellphone usage policies, recognizing the negative impacts of phone distractions on students' mental health and academic performance. North Dakota's House Bill 1160 requires schools to develop cellphone policies while allowing local control, with provisions for medical exceptions. Both states join a trend where nineteen states already have some form of cellphone policy legislation. Supporters argue these measures are necessary to enhance educational focus and address mental health concerns among students.