Michigan Senate approves bills to limit student cell phone use during class

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Senate approved Senate Bill 495 and House Bill 4141, aiming to limit student cell phone use during instructional time in schools.

After months of negotiations, lawmakers reached a bipartisan agreement last week, paving the way for the Senate’s passage of both bills.

Together, SB 495 and HB 4141 will require all public school districts to adopt policies that reduce student cell phone use and minimize classroom distractions, while allowing exceptions for emergencies.

“As a former teacher, I know firsthand how much student cell phone use impedes the ability to focus and learn in the classroom,” said Sen. Polehanki, chair of the Senate Education Committee.

“While my legislative colleagues and I have long agreed that addressing this issue is critical for Michigan kids, we’ve had to work together across the aisle to find common ground on a bicameral solution that best meets the needs of our schools — and I’m proud that we’ve successfully been able to do just that.”

SB 495 now moves to the House of Representatives for further review.

HB 4141 has been sent to Governor Whitmer’s desk.