Maryland Lawmakers Advance Bill to Restrict Student Cellphone Use in Schools

Proposed legislation would limit personal device access during school hours, sparking mixed reactions from parents and students.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 10:46pm

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A bill advancing in the Maryland state legislature would restrict student use of cellphones, laptops, and smartwatches in public schools starting in 2027. The so-called 'bell-to-bell ban' would prohibit personal device use during the entire school day, including lunch and recess, with some exceptions. Local school districts would determine policies for device storage and disciplinary measures. The proposal has drawn a range of responses from parents and students, with some seeing it as necessary to limit classroom distractions and others concerned about communication needs.

Why it matters

The legislation aims to create more focused learning environments by reducing the presence of personal devices that can distract students. However, some parents and students argue that complete bans may not be the best approach, as phones can serve important communication and educational purposes. The debate reflects broader discussions around balancing technology use and student well-being in modern classrooms.

The details

The Maryland Phone-Free Schools Act (House Bill 525 and Senate Bill 928) would require public schools to develop and implement policies by September 2027 that prohibit student use of cellphones, laptops, and smartwatches during the school day, with exceptions for individualized education programs and health needs. The ban would extend to lunch periods and recess, and local districts would determine how devices would be stored. The bill also calls for policies around administrator approval for using personal devices for educational purposes when school-issued devices are unavailable, as well as disciplinary measures for violations.

  • The House Ways and Means Committee is scheduled to hear the Senate version of the bill on Wednesday, March 29, 2026.
  • If passed and signed by the governor, the bill would take effect on July 1, 2027.

The players

Maryland Phone-Free Schools Act

A proposed state law that would restrict student use of personal electronic devices in public schools.

Mark Bedell

Superintendent of Anne Arundel County Public Schools, who has previously taken steps to limit cellphone distractions in classrooms.

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What they’re saying

“A blanket ban, I don't think it is a good idea, but I think having limited access to cellphones during the day is what I would be in favor of.”

— Mimszy Tackney Moen, Parent

“I think, coming from the parents' perspective, it is good to have an overarching rule, spend more time with the students to be more focused on their academics.”

— Vick, Parent

“No, not necessarily. Like, I mean, it's really just a distraction.”

— Jude Moen Metcalfe, Maryland High School Student

What’s next

If passed and signed by the governor, the Maryland Phone-Free Schools Act would take effect on July 1, 2027, requiring local school districts to develop and implement policies restricting student use of personal electronic devices during the school day.

The takeaway

The debate over restricting student cellphone use in schools reflects the ongoing challenge of balancing the benefits and drawbacks of technology in the classroom. While proponents argue that limiting distractions can improve focus and learning, others are concerned about the potential impacts on communication and educational opportunities. As the legislation moves forward, school districts will need to carefully consider how to best support student well-being and academic success in the digital age.