Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt signed a yearlong ban on cellphones in public schools across the state into law.
The development puts Oklahoma in line with 11 other states across the country that have implemented similar restrictions in schools. Some school districts in the region have already enforced similar policies.
Oklahoma School Cellphone Ban
On Monday, Stitt signed Senate Bill 139 to implement the "bell to bell" ban for the 2025-26 school year. The cellphone restriction will become optional for school districts in the following school year and moving forward.
When the yearlong ban on cellphones is implemented, the school board of each district is required to adopt a policy that restricts students from using various devices. These include cellphones, laptops, tablets, smart watches, smart headphones, and smart glasses.
They will not be able to use these devices from the first bell ringing on the instructional day until final dismissal from school. Additionally, the policy is required to outline disciplinary procedures in enforcing the rule among students, according to the Oklahoma Voice.
Devices that were issued or approved by schools to be used for classroom instruction will be exceptions to the law. Districts are also given the authority to permit cellphone use for emergencies for students who require them to monitor specific health issues.
The Oklahoma governor previously urged public schools to look for cost-neutral solutions that would make classrooms cellphone-free. This would be made to reverse a "worrying trend" of distraction, bullying, and learning difficulties.
Sen. Ally Seifried, a supporter of the bill, argued that the law was designed to create a distraction-free learning environment for students. She added that it will help teachers focus on educating children, who can concentrate on learning, the Journal Record reported.
Rise of Cellphone Usage in Classrooms
In a statement on Tuesday, Stitt argued that classrooms across the United States struggle with a rise in the usage of cellphones by students inside classrooms. He cited this as a reason why he issued his cellphone-free school challenge.
The governor noted that he wants children to focus and be present while they are being taught by their teachers. He added that the legislation helps promote an environment that is conducive to learning.
The situation comes as Sen. Kristen Thompson and Rep. Anthony Moore authored Senate Bill 758. The legislation will restrict Oklahoma school districts to having only two virtual days every school year that can count toward the 180-day or 1,080-hour school year instructional requirement, as per The Oklahoman.
