ALBANY, N.Y. — A new initiative proposed by Governor Kathy Hochul could lead to a ban on cellphones for students during school hours across New York state, potentially taking effect in the upcoming academic year. This plan, which requires legislative approval, aims to have students refrain from using their mobile phones and other personal devices while on school grounds, which includes classrooms, lunchrooms, and hallways.
Governor Hochul, a member of the Democratic Party, has indicated for some time that she was considering restrictions on cellphone usage in schools. She believes that limiting access to these devices could greatly enhance students’ focus in classrooms and promote better mental health. “We’re not developing the skills we need because kids are distracted with their cellphones,” Hochul remarked during a news conference in Albany. She further argued that teachers face significant challenges in delivering lessons in subjects like algebra and geography when students are preoccupied with social media, viral dance challenges, and other distractions.
The idea of restricting cellphone use is not unique to New York; at least eight states have adopted similar strategies, with additional states encouraging local districts to consider such measures. Recent proposals from other governors have mirrored Hochul’s initiative, signaling a growing trend toward regulating cellphone use in educational settings.
According to the governor’s office, the proposed legislation would give individual school districts some leeway in how to enforce the policy, particularly regarding the secure storage of devices and other related regulations. Exemptions will be made for students who require access due to medical conditions, learning disabilities, or limited English proficiency.
This proposal was revealed within Hochul’s budget plan for the next year, which includes $13.5 million allocated for assisting schools in implementing the cellphone ban.
Legislative leaders in Albany seem receptive to the notion, as Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins both emphasized the importance of minimizing distractions for students. However, they also acknowledged parents’ concerns regarding their ability to reach their children during emergencies.
In other regions, schools that have attempted to implement cellphone restrictions faced pushback from parents who argue that they need to maintain communication with their kids for safety reasons. Last year, the New York City school district, the largest in the nation, considered a similar ban but ultimately decided against it due to parental concerns.
Melinda Person, president of the New York State United Teachers union, expressed support for the proposed restrictions, asserting that such measures would help ensure students can learn without the presence of distractions. She stressed that reducing phone access during school hours could create a more conducive learning environment for all students.
