Governor Pritzker Proposes Statewide Limits on Student Cell Phone Use to Boost Classroom Focus

Governor JB Pritzker visited Oak Park and River Forest High School today, advocating for new legislation that would require Illinois schools to limit cell phone use during class time. The proposal responds to concerns from educators, with recent surveys showing 72% of high school teachers cite cell phone distraction as a significant issue. Research links excessive phone use to anxiety, depression, and poor academic performance. Exceptions in the policy would cover health, accessibility needs, and emergencies, while allowing local input. Supporters believe the measure will enhance learning and student well-being, with lawmakers emphasizing its role in creating a more focused, productive classroom environment statewide.

“Strong schools are the foundation to our success as a state. This year, I am proposing legislation that requires school districts to adopt a cell phone policy that keeps students focused on the work in class,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “We owe it to our kids to cultivate the healthiest, most productive learning environment possible — this proposal will help us do just that.”

“Our teachers deserve classrooms where they can focus on teaching and students can focus on learning,” said State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders. “A clear, consistent cell phone policy will empower local school districts to create distraction-free environments that support academic growth, strengthen student engagement, and promote student well-being. By setting thoughtful boundaries around cell phone use — while preserving critical exceptions for health, accessibility, and safety — this legislation is designed to help students thrive both in the classroom and beyond.”

The legislation calls for districts to adopt policies limiting the use of phones from “bell to bell,” with the following exceptions: