Most Michigan Parents Back Classroom Phone Bans — So Why Is This Bill Still a ‘Semi-Ban’? скачать в хорошем качестве

Most Michigan Parents Back Classroom Phone Bans — So Why Is This Bill Still a ‘Semi-Ban’?

Michigan lawmakers are moving to limit cell phones in schools — but the biggest loophole may be where students are least supervised. The Michigan House has advanced legislation restricting student cell phone use during instructional time, reviving a proposal that failed earlier this year. But under the version passed, students would still be allowed to use phones between classes and in hallways — the very moments when supervision is thinner and conflicts are more likely to erupt. That carve-out is raising new questions about whether the policy meaningfully addresses the real problems schools are facing. Educators say phones aren’t just a classroom distraction — they’re tools for cyberbullying, harassment, and coordinating conflicts that spill from hallways into classrooms and beyond the school day. Other states have moved toward stricter, bell-to-bell limits, arguing that partial bans are harder to enforce and easier to undermine. Michigan’s approach instead relies on districts to manage their own enforcement, creating a patchwork of rules that can vary from school to school — and even from hallway to hallway. Supporters say the compromise makes the bill easier to pass. Critics argue it sidesteps the environments where students are most vulnerable and adult oversight is weakest. The bill now heads to the Michigan Senate, where lawmakers will decide whether to close those gaps, expand exemptions, or let the issue stall again. What’s at stake: Why phones are still allowed during passing time How hallway access can fuel cyberbullying and conflicts Why partial bans create enforcement challenges How Michigan’s plan compares to stricter policies in other states What the Senate could still change next 🔔 Subscribe now:    / @wkarnews   WKAR and PBS are nonprofit, non-commercial public media. We serve the public, not shareholders, by providing free, trusted, educational content that strengthens communities and democracy. WKAR Social Channels Facebook:   / wkarofficial   Instagram:   / wkarofficial   Website: https://www.wkar.org/ 🧡 💔 Federal cuts tried to quiet Michigan’s voice. But with your help, it won’t be silenced. Help WKAR Close the Gap and keep trusted news alive. 👉 Donate to WKAR today! https://www.wkar.org/otr