Los Angeles has joined a growing list of US school districts, states, and towns prohibiting smartphone use in public schools amid concerns about social media and technology’s influence on children and youth.
The Los Angeles Unified School District Board, which oversees 1,000 schools, adopted a resolution last month to restrict student smartphone and social media use within 120 days. However, the measure would not take effect until 2025. California law passed in 2019 allows schools to restrict smartphone use during school hours, except in emergencies.
“When children and teens are in school, they should be focused on their studies, not their screens,” Newsom said June 19.
Last Monday, US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy urged for social media warning labels like tobacco and alcohol labels.
“Social media harms adolescents’ mental health. In The New York Times, Murthy wrote that a surgeon general’s warning label, which requires congressional action, would constantly warn parents and teens that social media is unsafe.
Where else are US schools banning smartphones?
Ohio, Indiana, Oklahoma, and Florida have banned smartphones in public schools.
Governor Eric Holcomb passed Indiana Senate Bill 185 into law in March, banning kids from using devices during school hours. It took effect on July 1.
Last month, Governor Mike DeWine of Ohio signed House Bill 250, forcing school districts to prohibit smartphone use in classrooms to avoid distractions.
“By limiting these distractions, we will reestablish the opportunity for students across Ohio to immerse themselves in their classwork, learn from their teachers, and create lifelong memories with their closest friends,” DeWine said in a statement.
Also in February, the Oklahoma Senate Appropriations Committee banned smartphones in classrooms. Senate Bill 1314 prohibits public school students from using smartphones.
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