Smartphone bans at school accelerate over concerns of youth mental health and academic performance

By Margaret Murray, Associate Professor of Public Communication and Culture Studies, University of Michigan

The number of states banning smartphones in schools is growing. For example, New York is now the largest state in the U.S. to ban smartphones in public schools.

Starting in fall 2025, students will not be allowed to use their phones during the school day, including during lunch, recess, or in between classes. This bell-to-bell policy will impact almost 2.5 million students in grades K-12.

By banning smartphones in schools, New York is joining states across the country. The bans are happening in both traditionally liberal and conservative states.

Alabama, Arkansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and West Virginia all passed legislation in 2025 that requires schools to have poli