Governor Kathy Hochul says kids are spending too much time scrolling on social media instead of focusing on school. © Jefferson Graham/USA Today | © Daniel DeLoach/Utica Observer-Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
(New York, NY) – A report from The Guardian says that Governor Kathy Hochul will introduce a bill later this year for the state legislature to work on for 2025. The bill would ban smartphones in K-12 schools in an effort to improve student academic performance. This proposed policy reflects growing concerns about the impact of digital distractions on learning and social development.
Hochul argues that reducing screen time during school hours can improve classroom engagement and interpersonal skills. Critics, however, voice concerns about the practical challenges of enforcing such a ban and the potential negative effects on communication between students and parents.
The bill would still allow for “simple” phones that just allow students to call or text in the case of any emergency.
