Missouri Lawmaker Proposes Bill to Ban Student Cellphone Use During Learning Time!

Race Day Live  A Missouri lawmaker has introduced a bill to ban students from using cell phones and smartwatches during instructional time in schools.

Representative Jamie Gragg, a Republican from Ozark, filed House Bill 408 to address classroom distractions and improve focus.

The bill has been referred to the Elementary and Secondary Education Committee, but no hearing date has been set yet.

Gragg said the idea came after hearing concerns from educators about the negative impact of cell phones in classrooms.

While some schools and districts already have policies on device use, many do not, leading to inconsistent rules.

Gragg’s proposal aims to standardize this by requiring all districts to adopt a written policy by the 2025-26 school year.

The proposed policy has three main requirements. First, students cannot use cell phones or internet-connected devices during instructional activities unless specifically authorized by the principal.

Second, students must turn off and store these devices during class. Finally, guidelines must cover device use outside of instructional time, such as during field trips.

Gragg emphasized that this legislation sets only the minimum standard, allowing schools to design their detailed policies.

He believes reducing distractions during class will help students focus better and retain knowledge, creating a “win-win” situation for both students and educators.

The bill also includes exceptions for students with Individualized Education Programs, federal 504 plans for disabilities, or emergency health plans.

Gragg noted that the legislation applies only to personal devices like cellphones and smartwatches, not to other electronic tools provided by schools.

In recent years, more schools have begun restricting devices like smartwatches, earbuds, and cameras to maintain a better learning environment.

Gragg commended these efforts, saying they show how important it is to eliminate distractions in the classroom.

Read More:

• Breaking: $2.5 Billion Relief Plan Announced to Revive Fire-Damaged Los Angeles!
• California Proposes Bill Allowing Lawsuits Against Big Oil for Climate-Driven Disasters!

However, some parents have raised concerns about emergencies, such as school shootings, where quick communication with students is crucial.

Gragg addressed this by pointing to strategies like cellphone caddies, where devices are stored but remain accessible in emergencies. He explained that students could quickly retrieve their phones if needed.

With this bill, Gragg aims to strike a balance between ensuring safety and minimizing distractions.

The conversation around cellphones in schools continues to grow, as educators, parents, and lawmakers weigh the pros and cons of such restrictions.

Reference