U.S. states implement school cell phone and screen bans

Several U.S. states are implementing policies to restrict digital device usage in schools. Michigan has enacted a statewide ban on cell phones during instructional time. In response, Demetrius Lancaster of the Joy Education Foundation has advocated for teaching digital literacy and responsible usage rather than implementing total bans, citing research that suggests guided smartphone use can improve student performance.

In Wisconsin, State Representative David Steffen plans to introduce legislation for the 2027-28 session that would create screen-free classrooms for students from pre-kindergarten through second grade. The proposal aims to eliminate laptops and tablets for younger learners, with exceptions for standardized testing, special needs support, and computer science requirements. This move follows similar legislative trends in states like Utah, Alabama, and Iowa, which have enacted restrictions on student screen time.