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Bill

S 333

An Act to promote phone free schools

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by John Cronin and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill establishing school policies to limit student cell phone access during the school day to reduce digital distraction and improve academic focus.

Accompanied a new draft, see S2549
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Bill Summary · S 333

Legislative bill overview

S 333 aims to restrict student cell phone use during the school day by establishing policies that promote "phone-free schools" in Massachusetts. The bill encourages or mandates schools to implement measures limiting student access to mobile devices during instructional time and potentially throughout the school day.

Why is this important

Phone use in schools affects student focus, academic performance, and classroom management. This bill addresses growing concerns about digital distraction impacting learning outcomes and student mental health, while also considering practical implementation challenges across diverse school districts with varying resources and student needs.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation flexibility vs. mandates: Whether schools should have discretion in policies or face specific requirements, and how this affects schools serving students with different needs (communication devices for students with disabilities, emergency contact concerns for parents)
  • Age-appropriate distinctions: The bill's approach to different grade levels—policies appropriate for elementary students may be impractical or counterproductive for high school students requiring more independence
  • Enforcement and equity: How schools will enforce restrictions fairly, whether wealthier districts can better accommodate alternatives (like secure storage), and potential disparate impacts on students from different socioeconomic backgrounds

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

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