Governor Kathy Hochul is taking aim at the pervasive use of smartphones in schools, proposing a statewide standard for “distraction-free learning environments” as part of her 2025 budget.
Hochul’s proposal follows a statewide listening tour in 2024, where parents, teachers, and administrators voiced concerns about the detrimental impacts of smartphones on student mental health and learning outcomes. “Smartphones have addictive qualities that can harm youth mental health and disrupt classrooms,” Hochul said during her State of the State address.
The initiative will create guidelines for limiting the use of smartphones and other internet-enabled devices in schools. While specific details are still being developed, the proposal could include designated phone-free zones, regulated use during instructional hours, and initiatives to promote technology-free activities.
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This move aligns with Hochul’s broader agenda to combat the mental health crisis among youth. It builds on her administration’s previous efforts, including the SAFE for Kids Act and the Child Data Protection Act, which addressed social media addiction and online safety.
Educators and mental health professionals have largely welcomed the plan, though it is expected to face challenges from student advocacy groups and those concerned about equity in technology access.
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