Florida lawmakers are proposing an amendment to an existing bill that would extend the ban on student cell phone use throughout the entire school day, rather than just during instructional time.

In 2023, the Florida Legislature passed a law prohibiting students from using cell phones and other electronic devices during class, except when explicitly directed by a teacher for educational purposes.

The proposed amendment to FL HB949 would require students to keep their phones put away for the full school day. Additionally, district school boards would need to designate specific areas within school buildings where students could use their phones under certain circumstances.

If approved, the amendment would take effect on July 1 of this year.

The state’s stricter stance on cell phone use in schools has already stirred debate among students and parents. According to an Associated Press report, parents in Broward County have raised concerns, particularly about the ability to communicate with their children in emergencies.

FL HB949 clarifies that while students may carry cell phones on school property, they would be prohibited from using them at any time during the school day.

“Each district school board shall adopt rules governing the use of a wireless communications device by a student while the student is on school property or in attendance at a school function, including designating locations within school buildings where a student may use his or her wireless communications device with the express permission of a school administrator,” the bill states.

Follow the St. Pete-Clearwater Sun on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Google, & X

(Image credit: CBS12)

PIE-Sun.com: local St. Pete-Clearwater news