State Representative Dan Howell has proposed legislation to ensure students receive uninterrupted classroom instruction across the Volunteer State.
House Bill 41 will require school districts to implement a policy prohibiting the use of personal electronics, including cell phones, tablets, laptops and gaming devices during the school day for K-8 students, and during instruction time for grades nine-12.
“Tennessee is blessed with exceptional public education, but a quality school can only do so much if a child isn’t paying attention in class,” Rep.
Howell said. “While there is a time and a place for cell phones, their usage in the classroom endangers a child’s learning environment and development. This bill will improve students' academic outcomes and educational experience by ensuring they have access to uninterrupted instruction time throughout their K-12 career.”
House Bill 41 authorizes teachers to permit cell phone use for educational reasons. Cell phones would also be permitted for students who require health monitoring and those with disabilities who have unique needs. Districts would be required to establish a process to communicate with parents in the event of an emergency as part of their cell phone policy.
Rep. Howell has met with several local educators and district superintendents who have conveyed that student cell phone use during class time is a serious issue.
Officials said, "A 2023 study found that 97 percent of 11- to 17-year-olds use their cell phones during the school day. It can take up to 20 minutes for a student to refocus after using a cell phone for non-academic purposes, another study found. At least eight states have restrictions on cell phones in schools."
The 114th Tennessee General Assembly convenes Jan. 14 at noon.