Eight states, including Florida and California, have passed laws that set up a ban on students from using cellphones in the classroom, and more than a dozen other states are exploring bans. The push for restricting cellphone usage comes after research has found it has become detrimental to teachers’ ability to conduct classes.

District of Columbia Councilwoman Brooke Pinto announced legislation that would prevent students from using cellphones and smartwatches, among other items, during the school day.

“We must remain focused on supporting a learning environment in all of our schools that will help our students learn, play, engage, and thrive,” Pinto said in a statement. 

“Removing distracting devices during the school day will better equip our students to focus, empower our teachers to teach, and ensure that our kids are engaging with one another in person, which will benefit them and their outcomes for years to come,” she added.

The bill would require each Local Education Agency in Washington to adopt a policy restricting cellphone usage by students at least 15 days before the start of the 2025-2026 school year.

The legislation already has support from Chairman Phil Mendelson, along with Councilmembers Charles Allen, Matthew Frumin, Zachary Parker, and Anita Bonds, who have all co-introduced the bill.

While Maryland has yet to introduce any legislation restricting the use of cellphones by students statewide, Virginia has. Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R-VA) issued an executive order last year.

The Virginia student cellphone ban went into effect on Jan. 1, 2025, and requires that students must have their cellphones turned off and stored away during the entire school day.