A Texas lawmaker is advocating for a statewide ban on cellphones in public schools, aiming to reduce distractions and combat bullying.
State Rep. Caroline Fairly (R-Amarillo) introduced a bill that would give school districts the flexibility to develop their own policies while encouraging stricter controls on cellphone use. Fairly said many schools already have some form of a ban in place, but her proposal would allow district leaders to craft guidelines that best suit their communities.
“Instead of focusing on learning, kids are distracted by their phones, leading to bullying,” Fairly said.
Under the proposed legislation, schools could implement complete bans or adopt measures such as requiring students to place their phones in magnetically sealed pouches during class.
Currently, nine states have laws banning or restricting cellphone use in public schools. If passed, Texas would join their ranks in an effort to enhance the learning environment.
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