Pennsylvania Enacts Statewide Bell-to-Bell School Phone Ban

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a bipartisan law requiring schools to prohibit student cellphone use from bell to bell beginning in the 2027–28 school year. Public, private, cyber and charter schools must develop their own policies, covering the full school day, including lunch and passing periods. The law allows exceptions for students with medical needs, individualized education plans or English-learning needs, as well as certain school activities. Shapiro and education advocates say the restrictions are intended to reduce distractions, help students focus and support learning and student well-being.