Three Pennsylvania state senators — Democrats Vince Hughes and Steve Santarsiero and Republican Devlin Robinson — have introduced a bipartisan bill that would require schools to adopt cellphone-free policies during the school day. Each district would develop its own approach, with exceptions for students who have medical needs or individualized education plans. The lawmakers cited growing concerns over the negative effects of smartphones on students’ learning, socialization, and mental health, pointing to data showing widespread classroom distraction and declining academic performance since the rise of smartphone and social media use. If passed, Pennsylvania would join 27 other states that already limit cellphone use in schools, as the bill now awaits review by the full state Senate.
To read this complete article, visit it on our website or pick up a copy of The Derrick or The News-Herald for October 14, 2025.
