Oklahoma City, OK – Lawmakers in Oklahoma are moving forward with plans to ban cell phones in classrooms statewide before the start of the fall school year. Two bills are currently making their way through the state Capitol, one in the Senate, authored by Sen. Ally Seifried (R-Claremore), and the other in the House, authored by Rep. Chad Caldwell (R-Enid).
The bills are part of a growing trend across the United States, as more states implement restrictions or outright bans on cell phone use in schools. Several states have already adopted similar measures, and Oklahoma is now joining the ranks of these states, with the goal of reducing distractions and improving focus among students.
During a recent committee hearing, Seifried explained the difference between the two bills. “The Senate bill we’ve previously discussed differs from the House version in that it allows local school boards the option to opt out each year,” she said. This flexibility would give individual school districts the ability to decide whether or not to enforce the policy, depending on the unique needs of their students and staff.
On Tuesday, the Senate Education Committee heard the House’s version of the bill, and it was passed with little opposition. The legislation is now slated to move to the Senate floor for further consideration. If it passes, it could take effect before the start of the next school year.
The push for a cell phone ban in classrooms is gaining momentum across the country, with a growing number of states recognizing the potential benefits of reducing screen time during school hours. While proponents argue that limiting cell phone use could lead to improved academic performance and less social media distraction, critics caution that the policy might hinder students’ ability to access educational resources and stay connected with their families.
As lawmakers continue to debate the issue, it remains clear that the debate over cell phone use in schools is far from over, and Oklahoma’s decision could serve as a key test case for other states considering similar measures.
