A new bill moving through the Florida Legislature could significantly change how students use their phones during the school day.

Senate Bill 1296, introduced by State Sen. Danny Burgess, seeks to launch a pilot program testing the effects of a full-day phone ban in select schools.

The proposal follows a law signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in May 2023 that restricted the use of wireless communication devices in public school classrooms throughout Florida, requiring students to power them off and store them in a designated area during instructional time.

On Wednesday, lawmakers referred the bill to three Senate committees—Education Pre-K-12, Children, Families, and Elder Affairs, and Rules. If passed, the legislation would take effect on July 1, 2025.

Under the bill, the education commissioner would partner with six school districts—two small, two medium, and two large—to implement and evaluate a policy banning student phone use throughout the school day. The Florida Department of Education would collect data on its impact on student behavior and academic performance, submitting a report to lawmakers by Dec. 1, 2026. The findings would help determine whether a broader statewide ban is warranted.

Sen. Burgess, a Republican representing Florida’s 23rd District, introduced the measure amid growing concerns over smartphones’ impact on education. Supporters argue that phones contribute to distractions and behavioral issues, while critics worry about limiting student-family communication.

Some Tampa Bay-area school districts have already taken steps to curb phone use. Hillsborough County Public Schools restricts phone use during class, Pasco County Schools requires devices to be silenced and out of sight, and Pinellas County Schools has implemented similar policies. SB 1296 could extend these efforts even further.

However, the bill faces pushback. One major concern is student safety, particularly in emergencies like school lockdowns or natural disasters. The proposed study would address these concerns in its findings.

Enforcement is another challenge. Critics question whether schools have the staff and resources to ensure compliance and fairness. Additionally, some educators incorporate smartphones into lessons, raising concerns that a total ban could disrupt digital learning and limit access to educational tools.

As the bill advances, expect a heated debate. Lawmakers will gather input from educators, parents, and student advocates before making a final decision.

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(Image credit: Danny Burgess Facebook)

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