Michigan Bans Student Smartphone Use During Class Time

New law allows exceptions for emergencies and medical needs

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed legislation that prohibits public school students in Michigan from using smartphones during instruction time starting next year. The law, introduced by state Representative Mark Tisdel, aims to reduce classroom distractions and keep students focused on their studies. While the law bans smartphones, it still allows students to use 'dumb' flip phones and permits device use during non-instruction time like lunch and between classes.

Why it matters

The new law is part of a growing trend across the U.S. to limit smartphone use in schools, as educators and policymakers seek to address the disruptive impact of social media and other digital distractions on student learning and engagement. Michigan's approach provides a balanced solution that still allows for necessary communication.

The details

The legislation from Representative Tisdel seeks to eliminate classroom distractions caused by smartphones and social media. Tisdel says the ban will help students stay focused on the material being taught. The law includes exemptions for emergencies and medical needs, and still allows students to use basic 'dumb' flip phones. Each school district will be responsible for developing its own enforcement plan.

  • The new law takes effect starting in the 2027-2028 school year.

The players

Governor Gretchen Whitmer

The governor of Michigan who signed the legislation into law.

Representative Mark Tisdel

The state legislator who introduced the bill to ban student smartphone use during class time.

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What they’re saying

“Not only are you supposed to be focused on the knowledge that the teaching professional is trying to impart, but worse than that even is all of the drama that's associated with or precipitated by the use of smartphones in schools.”

— Representative Mark Tisdel (wsjm.com)

What’s next

Schools across Michigan will now work to develop their own policies and enforcement plans to implement the new smartphone ban during class time.

The takeaway

Michigan's new law represents a balanced approach to addressing the disruptive impact of smartphones in classrooms, allowing for necessary communication while prioritizing student focus and engagement during instruction time.