MI Moves Closer To Cellphone Ban During Class Time In K-12 Public Schools

LANSING, MI — The Michigan Senate passed a bill Thursday that will ban K-12 students across the state from using their cellphones in class.

The Senate voted 34-1 in favor of the bill Thursday. Only Sen. Michele Hoitenga, R-Manton, voted no. The legislation has now cleared both chambers. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has signaled support for restricting phones in classrooms and is expected to sign them into law when they reach her desk.

The legislation would require all public school districts to create their own policies by next school year that will prohibit students from using their cellphones during class time, with exceptions for emergencies.

There would also be exceptions for phone use as part of specific assignments and other situations, such as passing classes and during lunch, mainly so they can still coordinate after-school activities with their families.

State Sen. Dayna Polehanki, D-Livonia, worked with Rochester Hills Rep. Mark Tisdel to craft the rare bipartisan legislation on school policy.

"As a former teacher, I know firsthand how much student cell phone use impedes the ability to focus and learn in the classroom," Polehanki said. "This is a win that will not only make a positive difference in our classrooms but also show the people of Michigan that despite our political differences, we can come together and deliver bipartisan solutions to the problems facing our state."