Florida Expands School Cellphone Ban, Tests High School Ban

Florida lawmakers have passed HB 1105, expanding the ban on student cellphone use to the entire school day for elementary and middle schools, replacing the previous restriction that applied only during instructional time. High schools will retain their current rules, except for a pilot program in six counties—spanning small, medium, and large districts—that will test a full-day ban. The bill was approved in the final hours of the legislative session, with lawmakers set to return to finalize the state budget. Supporters of the measure say the 'bell to bell' ban will reduce distractions and improve classroom focus, while opponents, including Rep. Ashley Gantt, voice concerns about student safety, particularly during off-campus activities. Hawaii, meanwhile, is gathering public input through a statewide survey as it considers its own school cellphone policies. These developments are part of a broader national debate about personal technology in schools.