States Advance Bills Banning Classroom Cellphone Use

Several U.S. states are advancing legislation to ban cellphones in schools, driven by concerns over their impact on student mental health and academic performance. In Nebraska, Legislative Bill 140 has advanced with overwhelming support, requiring K-12 schools to implement policies that restrict electronic device use during school hours, with some exceptions for special needs students and emergencies. Similarly, Tennessee's House Bill 932 has passed the House and awaits a final Senate vote, aiming to ban various wireless devices in classrooms. Proponents, including lawmakers and mental health officials, argue that reducing distractions from smartphones will enhance focus and learning outcomes for students. These legislative efforts reflect a growing trend among states to address the challenges posed by technology in educational settings. As states like Nebraska and Tennessee move forward, the discussion around student device usage continues to evolve, highlighting differing approaches to managing technology in schools.