Starting in 2025, Ohio public school students will need to keep their phones out of sight and out of use during the school day. A new law, passed as part of the state’s latest budget package, will prohibit cell phone use in classrooms in an effort to reduce distractions, limit cyberbullying, and improve academic focus.
The legislation, known as Senate Bill 158, was introduced by State Senator Jane Timken and recently signed into law by Governor Mike DeWine. The measure is a direct response to increasing concerns from educators and parents about the impact of mobile devices on students’ learning and behavior.
What the Law Entails
Under the new law, students will not be permitted to use their cell phones during instructional time unless there is a medical necessity (supported by documentation from a licensed physician) or during emergency situations covered by the school’s official safety plan.
Each school district is now required to draft and implement its own cell phone policy in accordance with the law. These policies must clearly define when, where, and how mobile devices may be used—or not used—on school grounds. Districts have a deadline of January 1, 2025 to finalize and adopt these rules.
Uniform Rules Across the State
While many Ohio schools already have their own policies regarding mobile phones, the new law ensures that every public school will have consistent expectations statewide. The law does not come with a specific enforcement strategy mandated by the state, but school districts will still be held accountable by state education authorities.
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Why Lawmakers Say It’s Necessary
The use of smartphones among school-aged children has been a topic of national debate. Proponents of the bill say the devices often contribute to in-class distractions, disrupt lessons, and serve as a platform for cyberbullying and inappropriate behavior.
“We want students to be present in the classroom—not scrolling through social media or texting their friends,” Senator Timken said in a statement. “This law is about creating a better, safer learning environment.”
Parents and Educators React
Many parents and educators have expressed support for the new law, saying it’s a step in the right direction.
Oni White, a teacher and parent, told reporters, “Phones are a huge distraction. As someone who’s in the classroom, I’ve seen firsthand how hard it is for students to focus when their phones are constantly buzzing.”
Another parent, Mandy Heinrich, added, “There’s too much opportunity for things like bullying to happen when students have unmonitored access to their phones. I think this will help kids feel safer.”
A Growing Trend in Education
Ohio joins a growing number of states and school systems around the country moving to limit cell phone use in schools. Studies have increasingly shown that students tend to perform better academically—and are more engaged—when they’re not distracted by digital devices.
Some schools are even adopting lockable pouches that students use to store phones during the school day, which could become more common as Ohio schools develop their own implementation plans.
Looking Ahead
With the law now signed, school districts are racing to create and communicate their policies ahead of the January 2025 deadline. The goal is to ensure students know the new expectations before the rules officially take effect at the start of the 2025 academic year.
While exceptions will still be made for specific health or emergency-related needs, the majority of Ohio students will need to adjust to a more device-free school day in the near future.
