Oregon Bill Advances to Ban Student Cell Phone Use During School Day
SALEM, Ore. — Oregon lawmakers have taken a significant step toward prohibiting student cell phone use during the entire school day with the advancement of bill HB 2251 to the full House of Representatives. The legislation extends beyond previous measures, aiming to ban cell phone use not only in classrooms but also during lunch and passing periods.
If passed, the bill will mandate school districts to enforce the no-phone policy, with set consequences for violations. Courtney Neron, chair of the Oregon House Committee on Education, emphasized in a recent session that the bill seeks to create uniformity in student phone policies throughout the state. "It addresses distractions and safety concerns impacting our students’ social dynamics," she stated.
Certain school districts, such as Portland Public Schools, have already implemented similar strategies, including an "off and away" policy and magnetic locking pouches to curb phone use. Proponents of HB 2251 argue that it aims to combat the stress, anxiety, and diminished focus linked to technology and social media.
Yet, the bill faces opposition. Committee vice chair Emily McIntire raised concerns about the rigid nature of a full-day ban potentially deterring struggling students from attending school, while highlighting the resilience of youth. Moreover, students have voiced their worries over safety, communication challenges with employers and family, and potential misallocation of district funds related to enforcement.
The bill does include exemptions for students with specific medical conditions and allows considerations for individualized education plans. As it progresses to a full House vote, discussions about the balance between maintaining focus in schools and addressing students’ practical needs continue.
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