The Indiana Senate has approved a bill that would expand restrictions on student cell phone use in schools. Current law limits phone use during instructional time, but the new proposal would require “bell-to-bell” restrictions. Schools would have the option to either ban phones from campus or require students to store devices in secure storage for the entire school day. The bill would also include smartwatches under the restrictions. Supporters point to studies suggesting schools with phone bans often see improvements in academic performance, student well-being, and teacher satisfaction. Opponents raised concerns about potential costs to school districts and limiting communication options during emergencies. The measure passed the Senate 28–19 and now heads to the Indiana House for further consideration.
