Story perspectives

Michigan Senate Passes Bills to Ban Cellphones in Classrooms

1/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Michigan's Senate passed two bills to limit cellphone use in classrooms, with a 34-1 vote.
House Bill 4141 requires districts to ban smartphones during instructional time, with medical exemptions and school-issued devices.
Senate Bill 495 requires protocols for cellphone use during emergencies.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer is expected to sign the measures, and supporters cite policies in other states and districts, noting improved engagement and reduced discipline issues.

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Story summary

Michigan's Senate passed two bills to limit cellphone use in classrooms, with a 34-1 vote.
House Bill 4141 requires districts to ban smartphones during instructional time, with medical exemptions and school-issued devices.
Senate Bill 495 requires protocols for cellphone use during emergencies.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer is expected to sign the measures, and supporters cite policies in other states and districts, noting improved engagement and reduced discipline issues.