Pennsylvania lawmakers pass statewide school cellphone ban

Pennsylvania legislators have passed a bipartisan “bell-to-bell” cellphone ban that will prohibit student mobile device use in both public and private schools during the school day. The measure passed the State Senate with a 47-3 vote following a 141-62 vote in the House.

Governor Josh Shapiro has indicated he will sign the legislation, which requires school districts to implement and enforce policies by the 2027-28 school year. Once enacted, districts must also provide written notification of these guidelines to parents and guardians.

The law includes specific exceptions for students with medical conditions, English-language learners who require devices for translation, and students with individualized education plans that necessitate phone use. Lawmakers cited rising rates of adolescent depression, anxiety, and suicide as primary drivers for the ban, aiming to reduce digital distractions and improve student mental health.