Proponents of the bills say cellphones are distracting and damaging to students' mental health, but some parents are expressing public safety concerns.

Summary

Several states, including Alabama, Maryland, and New Hampshire, are introducing legislation to ban or restrict cellphones in schools.

The measures claim to reduce distractions and address concerns over teen mental health linked to heavy social media use.

Proponents argue such bans help students focus, but opponents, including parents, warn of safety and communication issues.

“If something were to happen in the school, my child should be able to have their cellphone to be able to call for help, to be able to call me,” said parent Jeara Underwood.

Experts emphasize teaching responsible tech use rather than imposing broad bans.

  • JessicaEnglish
    12•1 day ago

    “If something were to happen in the school, my child should be able to have their cellphone to be able to call for help, to be able to call me,” said parent Jeara Underwood.

    Exactly. My son keeps his phone on him, and I keep mine with me. I don’t care what the school or my workplace says, the phones stay with us. There was a hoax call to his school that said there was going to be a shooting. In the moment, we weren’t sure what was happening. Thankfully, it was a hoax, and he and I were able to keep in contact throughout.

    • @I_Has_A_Hat
      4•1 day ago

      Ok? This isn’t banning having cell phones on you. It’s banning their use. Obviously if something were to happen, that rule kind of goes out the window.