FALL RIVER, Mass. (WPRI) — A ban on cellphones during the school day is one step closer to becoming law in Massachusetts.

The state Senate passed legislation in a 38-2 vote Thursday that would bar students from using their phones while at school.

"When students are not distracted by phones during the school day, they learn better," state Sen. Jason Lewis said while arguing in favor of the bill on the Senate floor.

Other lawmakers who support the proposal said it would help students be more productive and reduce bullying.

"A cellphone in the classroom with unbridled access to a cellphone is fundamentally corrosive to the educational process," Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr said.

If the bill becomes law, all school districts would be required to create a phone ban policy by the 2026-

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