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Bill

S 381

An Act limiting cell phones in classrooms

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Donnie Berthiaume and 2 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill restricts cell phone use during school classroom instruction to reduce distraction and improve student focus on learning.

Accompanied a new draft, see S2549
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Bill Summary · S 381

Legislative bill overview

S 381 is a Massachusetts bill that would restrict student cell phone use during school hours in classroom settings. The legislation aims to address concerns about classroom distraction and student focus by limiting phone access during instructional time.

Why is this important

Cell phone policies directly affect learning environments and student academic performance. This bill reflects a growing national conversation about technology's role in education, balancing students' connectivity needs against concerns about attention, mental health, and classroom management.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation and enforcement – Schools would bear responsibility for enforcing restrictions, raising questions about feasibility, consistent application across districts, and discipline protocols for violations
  • Accessibility and equity concerns – Students may rely on phones for medical alerts, communication with guardians, or accessibility accommodations; blanket restrictions could disproportionately affect students with disabilities
  • Age-appropriateness variations – Secondary school needs differ significantly from elementary; a one-size-fits-all approach may not reflect developmental appropriateness across grade levels
  • Parental communication – Restricting phones limits direct emergency contact between parents and students, a concern heightened since the pandemic
  • Definition and scope – The bill's specific restrictions (classroom only vs. broader school day, educational apps vs. all use) remain unclear based on available information

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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