Springfield, IL (WAND) – The bipartisan plan calling for a statewide school cell phone ban has arrived on Gov. JB Pritzker’s desk.
Districts would need to allow exceptions for high school students, children with IEPs, emergencies, student health, or when the device is used for translation services.
“This constant source of distraction is lowering their academic progress,” said Rep. Michelle Mussman (D-Schaumburg). “It’s increasing anxiety, depression, cyberbullying and inhibiting face-to-face communication at a critical time when youth are developing their social skills.”
Schools will not be allowed to enforce cell phone bans through fines, fees or deployment of school resource officers and local law enforcement.
Senate bill 2427 passed out of the Senate on a 55-2 vote. It previously received a 102-4 vote in the House.
Pritzker said he is pleased lawmakers finished the job and looks forward to signing the bill into law.
“Having a consistent process for all school districts that they can apply is key versus various different policies,” said Sen. Cristina Castro (D-Elgin).
