Governor Reynolds Introduces Bill to Restrict Cell Phones in Schools

Governor Kim Reynolds on Friday introduced a bill to restrict students’ cell phone use during instructional time. 

The bill establishes a floor, or a minimum standard, that all Iowa school districts will be required to adopt by July 1st.

Governor Reynolds says cell phones are not only a distraction, but a deterrent to development in the classroom. According to the governor, seven in ten high school teachers say smartphones are a major problem and 80 percent of Gen Z students spend over six hours per day on their phone. Reynolds’ goal is to return the classroom to a place for learning, growth, and connection to give students their best chance at success. 

State Senator Dan Zumbach of Ryan says he agrees cell phones do not belong in the classroom.

Des Moines Public Schools are seeing some positive results from a pilot program limiting cell phone usage at Hoover High School. Meanwhile, Ottumwa Community Schools Superintendent Michael McGrory says the recent implementation of their cell phone policy is having a significant positive impact on our students’ mental health, engagement in the classroom, academic performance, and connections with one another.

The Iowa Department of Education will provide sample policies with room for potential common-sense exemptions. In partnership with the Department of Public Safety, the Department of Education will also provide guidance and support for schools that need to update their school safety plans.  

The legislation would also require “effects of social media” training for 6th through 8th grade students.