LANSING — Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed bipartisan legislation aimed at reducing phone distractions in Michigan classrooms.
The new laws require school districts to develop local policies limiting student cellphone use during instructional time, with exceptions for emergencies and academic purposes.
The legislation follows a goal outlined by the governor in her 2025 State of the State address and received support from both parties in the Legislature.
Supporters say limiting phone use during class improves student focus, academic performance, and mental health. Education groups report that most teachers favor restrictions on classroom phone use.
Districts will retain control over how the policies are implemented, allowing flexibility based on local needs and community input.
The measures build on similar policies already in place in other states and in several Michigan school districts, where officials report improved learning environments and fewer classroom disruptions.