FROM INDIANA PUBLIC BROADCASTING

A divided Indiana Senate approved legislation this week that would tighten restrictions on student cell phone use in schools, despite concerns raised about safety, cost, and enforcement.

Current state law limits student phone use during instructional time but allows access during lunch and passing periods. The new proposal would move to a “bell-to-bell” restriction. Under the bill, school districts could choose between banning phones from school entirely or requiring devices to be stored in secure storage for the full school day. The legislation would also add smartwatches to the list of restricted devices.

Supporters cited national reports indicating that schools with phone bans are more likely to see improvements in academic performance, student mental health, and teacher satisfaction.

Opponents argued the bill could create an unfunded expense for school districts and reduce communication options in classrooms during a school shooting or other emergency.

The bill passed the Senate on a 28–19 vote and now moves to the Indiana House for consideration.