Legislature Advances Bill to Limit Cellphone Use in Schools

TRENTON — A bill aimed at limiting cellphone use in schools is moving through the Legislature after a hearing by the Assembly’s education committee on Monday. The legislation would require school boards to adopt policies restricting students' cellphone use during critical instruction periods. This bill aligns with one of Gov. Phil Murphy’s priorities for his final year in office.

TRENTON — A bill aimed at limiting cellphone use in schools is moving through the Legislature after a hearing by the Assembly’s education committee on Monday. The legislation would require school boards to adopt policies restricting students' cellphone use during critical instruction periods. This bill aligns with one of Gov. Phil Murphy’s priorities for his final year in office. It gives local school officials the flexibility to implement such restrictions, aiming to reduce distractions and improve educational outcomes. Supporters of the bill, including Assemblywoman Rosy Bagolie (D-Essex) and Assemblyman Cody Miller (D-Gloucester), argue that limiting phone use will help address learning loss exacerbated by the pandemic. They also see it as a way to reduce cyberbullying. Miller emphasized that students reported improved learning without their phones as distractions. The bill would empower the state’s education commissioner to create policies for K-12 students regarding cellphone and social media use during school hours and activities. Schools would be required to adopt policies that align with the state's guidelines, with the option to request waivers. While the Senate passed the bill in January, it was amended on Monday to offer more flexibility, allowing phones for emergencies. Republicans expressed concerns over costs and enforcement, particularly with the need for pouches that would cost $25 each for students' phones. It remains unclear when the full Assembly will vote on the bill.