House passes bill requiring districts to bar student cell phones during instructional time

The Tennessee House of Representatives voted to pass House Bill 9,32 on the chamber floor, directing every local school district to adopt a policy that prohibits students from using cell phones and other wireless communication devices during instructional time.

The bill’s sponsor, Representative Alexander, told colleagues on the floor that “this bill just eliminates the use of cell phone or any wireless communication device during instructional time, during our schools so our kids can learn better.” He said the measure allows school districts to craft their own implementation plans and includes exemptions for students with disabilities and for teachers who choose to use devices for instruction.

Supporters said local control and concerns about student focus and mental health motivated the proposal. Representative Hemmer, a cosponsor and parent, thanked the sponsor “as someone who has spoken with teachers and counselors in my community, who have seen the benefit” of similar policies. Representative Hardaway cited scientific concerns about constant device use and its effects on children’s attention and social development.

Members pressed the sponsor for details about exceptions and emergency communications. Representative Doggett asked whether nonverbal students who rely on electronic devices for communication would be protected; Alexander replied, “That is correct,” and noted that the bill provides disability and medical exemptions. Representatives Clemens and others asked whether local education agencies (LEAs) would retain implementation discretion; the sponsor said LEAs decide whether the ban covers only instructional time or the entire school day, how devices are handled on entry and the disciplinary approach. On emergencies, Alexander said school boards must include procedures to communicate directly with families and warned that unfettered student phone calls during emergencies could impede emergency responses.

The bill requires school districts to adopt a policy that: prohibits wireless devices during instructional time; includes defined exceptions for disabilities and medical needs; sets procedures for communicating with parents in emergencies; and incorporates disciplinary measures consistent with local codes. Committee amendment No. 1 was adopted before final passage.

The House approved the bill on a recorded vote. The clerk announced the tally as 80 yeas, 10 nays and 1 present. The measure now moves to the next steps in the legislative process.

The debate on the floor highlighted the bill’s mix of state-level direction with local implementation detail and underscored differing views on how strictly districts should enforce the restriction and how parents would be able to contact children during campus emergencies.