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House rejects proposal to ban phones on chamber desks after debate over medical and constituent exemptions
Summary
Representative Davis sought to bar phones from members' desks and forbid on-floor phone use to reduce distractions and model student behavior; after extended debate about ADA and constituent‑communication exceptions the House voted 12‑50 and the amendment failed to reach the two‑thirds threshold.
Representative Davis moved to amend House Rule 15‑5 to prohibit members from placing or using cell phones or similar devices on the surface of their desks or on the House floor while the body is in session. Davis said the change would "give us two hands to work with" and urged the House to "stand with our school districts" on device policies.
Opponents pressed immediate exceptions. Representative Stival said the change "won't work" under the Americans…
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