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Michigan House Advances Statewide School Cell Phone Ban

Russ Survance

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 11:01:28 EST

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The Michigan House of Representatives has passed legislation restricting student cell phone use during class time. Lawmakers approved the measure Wednesday in a 99-10 vote, marking broad bipartisan support after a similar effort failed last year.

Under the proposal, public and charter schools would be required to adopt policies banning phones during instructional periods, though schools could choose to enforce stricter limits. Exceptions would be allowed for medical needs, and the rule would not apply to school-issued devices such as tablets and laptops.

The bill now moves to the state Senate for review before potentially reaching Governor Gretchen Whitmer for final approval.