Cellphone Bans In PA Schools Likely Coming

PENNSYLVANIA — The state's 500 school districts could be mandated to restrict bell-to-bell cellphone use by students during the school day as early as next year.

The state House on Monday approved a bill that would prohibit students from using or possessing a cellphone during the school day. The Senate already approved the measure; it goes back to that body for expected concurrence, then goes to Gov. Josh Shapiro. He favors the restriction and likely would sign the bill into law.

“Our children are being held captive by big tech and by that smartphone in their pockets,” state Rep. Mandy Steele, an Allegheny County Democrat, said in a statement. “Let children have their hearts and minds back for at least six hours a day while they are preparing for their future."

Steele also said that research into unrestricted cellphone access among minors has proven that the phones are driving down test scores, driving up depressions, as well as increasing eating disorders and suicides.

Under the bill, districts would have to devise individual policies to secure the phones during classroom time, including recess and study halls. There are exceptions, however; phones would be permitted for documented medical conditions, an individualized education program or with permission from a school administrator.

At least 39 states and the District of Columbia currently restrict cell phone use in schools, according to Education Week. Thirty states enforce a full “bell-to-bell” ban, also known as an “away for a day” policy.