A statewide ban on cell phones in Oregon’s K-12 classrooms could soon be on the books, following years of discussion and rising concern over the impact of personal devices on student learning and well-being.
On Wednesday, March 26, the House Committee on Education held a public hearing on House Bill 2251, a proposal that would require all public school districts in Oregon to create a policy restricting cellphone use in classrooms. The bill allows for reasonable exceptions, such as for students with individualized education plans who need devices for learning. Districts that fail to adopt a compliant policy could face consequences for not meeting state standards.
The legislation is backed by Representatives Kim Wallan of Medford and April Dobson of North Clackamas, along with Senator Lisa Reynolds of Portland. The bill is set to move forward to a work session scheduled for Wednesday, April 2…