New York to Impose Statewide Ban on Smartphones in Schools (1)

New York State legislative leaders have agreed to ban smartphone use in public schools under a new budget agreement aimed at improving children’s mental health.

The restrictions will apply throughout the school day, from the first bell to the last, Democratic Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie told reporters at the Capitol on Thursday.

“Research shows bell-to-bell cell phone restrictions make schools safer and help kids stay engaged, learn and thrive,” said Melinda Person, president of New York State United Teachers.

New York will join California, Florida, Virginia and several other states that have approved limits on school-day smartphone use in recent ...