The proposal would restrict students’ phone use throughout the school day, with guidelines governing whether they may possess devices. It includes exceptions for students with medical needs, those using phones to support instruction and students granted specific permission.

Lawmakers backing the measure say limiting smartphone use could help address concerns about distraction and young people’s mental health. Their statement cites increases in adolescent depression, anxiety and suicide rates, as well as high levels of teen phone use and notifications. Those figures are part of the lawmakers’ case for the bill; the statement does not establish that phone use alone caused the reported mental-health trends.

Gov. Josh Shapiro has indicated he would sign the measure if it clears the Senate. If enacted, the statewide policy would take effect in the 2027-28 school year, giving schools time to prepare rules for implementation and exceptions.