Wisconsin lawmakers have introduced Assembly Bill 2, which would require all school boards to adopt policies banning student cellphone use during instructional time. The bill, introduced by a coalition of Republican legislators, aims to address growing concerns over classroom distractions and student mental health. If passed, school boards would need to implement the new policies by July 1, 2026, with exceptions for emergencies, health needs, and students with individualized education programs (IEPs). The bill is being led by Republican Assemblyman, Joel Kitchens, who chairs the Assembly Education Committee. 

Supporters argue that excessive cellphone use disrupts learning and contributes to declining student performance. They also point to growing evidence linking social media use to increased anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances among youth.

Wisconsin’s proposal comes amid a broader push across the country to curb cellphone use in schools. Eight states—California, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Ohio, South Carolina, and Virginia—have enacted statewide policies restricting cellphone use in schools. These bans vary, with some states requiring complete prohibition and others allowing school districts to tailor their policies.

The rationale behind these policies is linked to concerns about youth mental health. Studies indicate that excessive social media use among adolescents correlates with increased rates of anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Moreover, teachers report that cellphone distractions significantly impact classroom learning, reducing students’ ability to focus and retain information.

Kitchens has referenced research, including Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation, which links increased screen time to rising rates of self-harm among young girls. While acknowledging that technology is here to stay, Kitchens emphasized the need for students to learn when to put devices away and focus on learning. The bill would not ban cellphones entirely but would allow districts to set their own policies, permitting use during passing periods and lunch if they choose. Many Wisconsin districts already have similar restrictions, and Kitchens sees the bill as reinforcing their authority to regulate phone use in schools at the state level.

While the long-term impact of these bans remains uncertain, policymakers continue to push for stricter regulations, citing potential benefits for academic performance and student well-being. The federal government has also taken steps to support these initiatives. The U.S. Department of Education recently issued guidance urging school districts to adopt cellphone management policies and conduct studies on the effects of smartphone use on student learning and mental health.