Mexican Deputy warns against total cell phone ban in schools

Mexican Federal Deputy Blanca Narro Panameño of the Morena party has warned that a total ban on cell phones in schools would be “disproportionate and unjust.” She argued that such a measure could violate the human rights of children and adolescents.

As the federal government prepares a regulatory proposal for the 2026-2027 school year, Narro Panameño is proposing a reform to the General Education Law. Her goal is to establish clear guidelines for the possession and use of electronic devices in schools rather than implementing an absolute prohibition. She emphasized that any regulation must address digital violence prevention, data protection, and mental health while considering socioeconomic factors such as unequal connectivity and family economic conditions.

The legislator noted that while 16 Mexican states already have various local restrictions, a homogeneous national measure is needed. She suggested that the debate should also include corporate responsibility regarding social media platforms, age verification mechanisms, and restrictions on addictive design features.