A new law has been enacted in Pennsylvania aimed at improving students’ mental health and academic performance by restricting smartphone use in schools. Championed by Sen. Ryan Aument, Senate Bill 700, now Act 55 of 2024, introduces the use of secure, lockable smartphone bags where students will store their mobile devices for the duration of the school day.
The legislation amends the School Safety & Mental Health grant program to fund these smartphone bags, allocating $100 million towards the initiative. Each school district will receive an automatic base grant of $100,000, while intermediate units, career and technical schools, charter schools, and cyber charter schools will each receive $70,000. This funding is intended to address the negative impact of smartphones and social media on students’ mental health and academic performance.
Research indicates that the rise of smartphones and social media since the early 2010s correlates with a significant decline in children’s mental health and academic achievements. By limiting smartphone access during school hours, the new law aims to help students focus better in class and improve the social environment on campus.
In exchange for the grant funding, schools are required to develop and adopt official policies prohibiting cellphone use during school hours. While these requirements are currently voluntary, Sen. Aument has expressed his intention to push for a statewide prohibition on cellphone use during school hours in the future. The implementation of Senate Bill 700 marks a significant step towards enhancing the educational and social well-being of students across Pennsylvania.