A new bill proposed Monday would require school districts in Washington state to enforce policies restricting student phone use.
The bill aims to combat a “multitude of negative effects on student outcomes” caused by the use of mobile devices, and it follows recent efforts in a few Washington state schools to ban phones during the academic day.
The bill highlights the impact of phones on student learning and mental health. It cites distractions, poor academic performance, and an increased risk of cyberbullying.
Districts across the country are experimenting with various types of restrictions as educators attempt to limit the widespread use of smartphones on campus.
Educators have numerous reasons for supporting phone-free policies, but formal research on the effects of school smartphone use and bans is limited.
Reps. Liz Berry (D), Mari Leavitt (D), and Stephanie McClintock (R) introduced the bill, which would take effect in the 2026-27 school year. The bill makes exceptions for emergencies, disabilities, English learners, health conditions, and specific instructional needs.
According to the proposal, the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) would submit a report to the legislature by December 15, summarizing current policies and recommending strategies for restricting mobile device use. Limiting device use to specific times, places, or activities, as well as requiring devices to be securely stored during class, are possible recommendations.
In August, the head of OPSI sent a notice to the state’s districts encouraging them to develop plans for limiting students’ use of cellphones.
According to Education Week, Louisiana and South Carolina have laws prohibiting cellphone use during the school day, while Florida does not allow the devices during instructional time. Other states have requested or pursued restrictions.
To prevent phone use, place the devices in locked pouches like those made by Yondr, or store them in backpacks stored in the front of a classroom or in storage containers like hanging shoe holders hung over a door.
More than a year ago, UNESCO urged leaders to limit the use of cellphones and other technology in schools except for educational purposes. In May 2023, US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy issued a warning about the harm caused by social media and its impact on the country’s youth mental health crisis.
Educators in schools with approved bans report anecdotal benefits such as increased student engagement, improved mental health, and fewer discipline problems and violent behaviors.
