Michigan Approves Classroom Phone Restrictions

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Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed new legislation that requires school districts to develop policies limiting student cellphone use during class time, with exceptions for emergencies and academic purposes. The bipartisan bill aims to reduce phone-related distractions and improve student focus and academic performance.

Why it matters

The new law gives Michigan schools more flexibility to address the growing issue of classroom distractions caused by student cellphone use. Supporters say limiting phone access can boost learning outcomes and student mental health, though districts will have control over how the policies are implemented based on local needs.

The details

The legislation follows a goal outlined by Governor Whitmer in her 2025 State of the State address and received support from both Republicans and Democrats in the state legislature. It requires school districts to develop their own policies restricting student cellphone use during instructional time, with exceptions for emergencies and academic purposes. Education groups report that most teachers favor restrictions on classroom phone use, and similar policies are already in place in other states and some Michigan school districts, where officials say the rules have improved learning environments and reduced disruptions.

• Governor Whitmer signed the bipartisan bill into law on February 10, 2026.

What’s next

The new law will go into effect at the start of the 2026-2027 school year, giving districts time to develop and implement their local cellphone policies.