Michigan Bans Smartphones in Classrooms

New law prohibits device use during instructional time starting this fall

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed a new law banning smartphones from public school classrooms starting in the 2026-27 school year. The law allows students to carry basic phones but prohibits smartphone use during instructional time, with the goal of reducing distractions and improving student learning.

Why it matters

Michigan is the latest state to enact a classroom smartphone ban, joining over three dozen others that have implemented similar policies. Proponents argue that smartphones are a major distraction in schools, disrupting learning and contributing to behavioral issues. The new law aims to address these concerns and create a statewide standard for cellphone use in public schools.

The details

Under the new law, students will be able to have phones with them at school but will not be allowed to use smartphones during instructional time. They can still use basic phones for calls and texts. School districts will be required to post their cellphone policies online and detail how they will enforce the rules. The law does not apply to private or parochial schools, and it does not restrict the use of medically necessary devices or district-owned instructional technology.

  • The new law will take effect for the start of the 2026-27 school year.
  • Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the bill into law on February 11, 2026.

The players

Gretchen Whitmer

The governor of Michigan who signed the classroom smartphone ban into law.

Mark Tisdel

The Republican state representative who sponsored the legislation.

Waverly High School

The school where the bill signing ceremony took place.

Carcia Young

A math teacher at Waverly High School who has noticed improved student behavior and engagement since her school implemented its own phone ban.

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What they’re saying

“We know that phones impede a student's ability to learn. They are by far the most disruptive distraction in our classrooms … designed to keep you scrolling, and teachers struggling to keep the class engaged while competing against social media.”

— Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan (bigrapidsnews.com)

“When students are fully present, they participate more, retain more and achieve more.”

— Carcia Young, Math Teacher, Waverly High School (bigrapidsnews.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This new law highlights the growing concern among educators and policymakers about the disruptive impact of smartphones in classrooms. By establishing a statewide standard, Michigan aims to improve student focus and learning outcomes, though some experts suggest even stricter policies may be needed in the future.