Florida, Quebec, Georgia, Michigan propose statewide school cell phone bans

Lawmakers and education officials across North America are increasingly considering or implementing bans on cell phone use in schools due to concerns about digital distractions, student well-being, and academic performance. In Florida, proposed legislation would expand current restrictions, with some districts reporting positive outcomes like reduced bullying and higher grades, though some parents worry about emergency communication. Similarly, Georgia is set to ban phones for elementary and middle schoolers during the school day, with pilot programs showing significant drops in disciplinary issues, despite initial parental concerns about safety and communication. In Michigan, lawmakers are debating a bill that would restrict phone use by grade level, with some schools already enforcing no-phone policies. Meanwhile, Quebec is considering a complete ban on phones on all school grounds by fall 2025, following recommendations from a special commission concerned about the impact of screens on youth health and development. These measures reflect a broader trend of balancing the benefits of reduced distractions and improved school environments with the challenges of maintaining communication and addressing parental concerns.