DeWine supports bill banning student cellphone use in Ohio schools

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine is advocating for Senate Bill 158, which seeks to ban student cell phone use during the school day across public schools in Ohio. DeWine emphasizes the necessity of this legislation, citing distractions caused by cell phones and their detrimental effects on student performance and mental health. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Jane Timken, includes exceptions for documented educational needs or health monitoring. If passed, schools will need to adopt their policies by September 1, 2025, with the goal of enhancing student engagement and academic outcomes. DeWine's push follows a previous law aimed at limiting cell phone use, which has reportedly led to improved student attendance and grades in districts that enacted bans. Support for the bill was echoed by various stakeholders during a recent press conference.