Mississippi Lt. Gov. seeks to reintroduce school cell phone ban

Mississippi Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann has announced intentions to reintroduce Senate Bill 2151 during the upcoming legislative session. The bill aims to prohibit cell phone use during the school day, with exceptions provided for medical needs and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

Although the bill passed the Senate during the 2025 legislative session, it failed to pass the House. Hosemann argues that cell phones serve as a major distraction that hinders academic performance and classroom engagement. He also cited concerns regarding mental and social health, noting that high cell phone usage is linked to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and cyberbullying among youth.

Currently, 42 states have implemented some form of cell phone restrictions. States such as Alabama, Arkansas, and Louisiana enforce “bell to bell” restrictions covering the entire school day, barring exceptions for disabilities or emergencies.