US EditionCrackdown on Cellphones in Mass. Schools Gaining Traction in Senate
MASSACHUSETTS, JUL 8 – Massachusetts lawmakers view cellphone use in schools as a behavioral health crisis and require districts to create policies with exceptions and disciplinary measures.
- On July 8, 2025, members of the Massachusetts Senate Education Committee moved forward a bill that would require public schools to implement policies preventing students from using their personal electronic devices during school hours.
- The bill, redrafted from Sen. Julian Cyr's proposal, responds to widespread concerns about phone distractions and mental health impacts on students but omits earlier social media regulations.
- It mandates districts to implement 'bell-to-bell' bans by the 2026-27 school year, includes exceptions for disabilities, emergencies, off-campus activities, and requires communication methods between parents and students.
- Senate President Karen Spilka and Sen. Jason Lewis emphasized that cell phones significantly hinder students' academic progress and described them as among the most disruptive devices ever invented.
- The bill, supported by Senate leaders, has advanced to the Senate’s key budget and finance panel, while its future in the House remains uncertain; the legislation also highlights the importance of allowing local districts some discretion in implementation.
26 Articles
26 Articles
The government will investigate whether to introduce an age limit on social media. Education Minister Simona Mohamsson (L) believes that screen time is getting in the way of learning in school. – It is a policy of freedom to put school and children's health first.
State senate weighing school cell phone ban - Boston News, Weather, Sports
Massachusetts state senators are advancing legislation to ban cell phones in schools. Lawmakers voted unanimously Tuesday to send the bill to a Senate committee, the last stop before a floor vote in the chamber. Senators said cell phones can be distracting and banning them would ensure classrooms are spaces where kids can focus and learn.
Korea moves to ban mobile phones during school hours
Starting as early as March next year, elementary, middle and high school students in Korea are expected to face a ban on using mobile phones and other smart devices during class, with additional restrictions likely to extend to school grounds outside of class hours. The move comes amid growing concerns from educators and parents regarding the pervasive influence of smartphones on student concentration and academic performance. Proponents of the …
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 43% of the sources are Center
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
