Maryland lawmaker proposes statewide ban on cell phones in classrooms
What we know
ANNAPOLIS, Md. - Maryland classrooms could soon become cell phone-free zones if a new proposal gains traction in the state legislature.
Del. Adrian Boafo, who represents Prince George’s County, has introduced the Maryland Phone-Free Schools Act, a bill that would ban student cell phone use during school hours across the state.
The legislation follows similar efforts in Virginia, where Gov. Glenn Youngkin recently issued an executive order promoting phone-free learning environments.
Virginia adopts statewide 'bell-to-bell' cell phone ban in public schools
The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has released its final guidance on a "bell-to-bell" cell phone-free policy for K-12 public schools across the state, in response to Governor Glenn Youngkin’s Executive Order 33.
Boafo's bill builds on a recent unanimous resolution by the Prince George’s County Council, which encouraged local schools to adopt policies restricting cell phone use. The statewide measure would make these restrictions mandatory, aligning Maryland with eight other states that have enacted similar bans.
Supporters of the proposal, including educators, argue that cell phones in classrooms diminish focus, hinder academic performance, and contribute to issues like cyberbullying and social isolation.
Addressing concerns from parents about emergency communication, Boafo emphasized flexibility in the bill.
"We’re letting all 24 jurisdictions figure out what works best for them in consultation with educators," Boafo said. "We’ve also included provisions for emergency and educational use."
If passed, the law would take effect during the 2026-2027 school year, giving students, families, and schools time to adjust.
The Source: The information in this report comes from FOX 5's Katie Barlow.