North Carolina advances statewide student cell phone restriction bill

The North Carolina General Assembly is advancing legislation aimed at limiting cell phone use in public schools, with House Bill 87 gaining traction in the House Education Committee. The bill mandates that school districts adopt policies restricting phone use during instructional time, except for educational purposes. Proponents argue that cell phones distract students and contribute to issues like cyberbullying, while opponents express concerns about the need for emergency communication during crises. Some lawmakers and parents advocate for teaching responsible phone use rather than imposing outright bans. The bill reflects a growing consensus among educators that minimizing distractions could enhance learning environments. Currently, 77 of the 115 school boards in North Carolina have existing restrictions on phone use, but the proposed legislation aims to standardize these policies statewide.