The Missouri state Senate voted on May 13 to approve a bill that will require public school districts and charter schools in the state to adopt formal policies restricting K-12 student use of electronic personal communication devices during the school day.
The law is targeting the 2025-2026 school year for the restrictions to take effect.
Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe said earlier this year that he supports the bill, which requires his signature to become law.
The bill requires schools to develop written policies that prohibit students from using or displaying smartphones and similar devices throughout the entire school day. This includes instructional time, lunch, breaks, passing periods, and study halls.
The goal of the legislation is to promote educational focus and maintain a safe and effective learning environment for staff and students.
The law defines “electronic personal communication devices” as portable electronics used to send, receive, store, or view communications, images, or data. It also requires schools to come up with disciplinary procedures for violations.
Exceptions to the ban on school-day device use are due to include students with specific educational or medical needs. Device use may also be permitted in emergencies or for authorized educational purposes.
The law includes a sunset clause and is scheduled to expire in 2032, unless renewed.
In approving the student device ban, Missouri is joining several other states that are taking similar steps, including New York, Florida, and Iowa.
