Senate Bill 207 introduces stricter regulations regarding cell phones in schools

LAFAYETTE, LA — Texting or textbooks? Senate Bill 207 now heads to Gov. Jeff Landry’s desk after unanimous approval by the Louisiana Senate. The bill seeks to enforce stricter regulations regarding student cell phone use on school campuses, including on school buses.

The bill, represented by Sen. Beth Mizell, R-Franklinton, would prohibit the unauthorized possession of electronic telecommunications devices on school property. This would take effect in the 2024–2025 school year, but the bill states that if a student brings a phone to school, it must be turned off and stored.

Exemptions will be made for students who need special accommodation.

KATC spoke with State Senator Cleo Fields, D-Baton Rouge, about why this bill will benefit school systems.

“I think cell phones can be disruptive not only when driving, but also when taking a test at school. I just think that these need to be parameters if a child is allowed to have a cell phone in educational settings and that’s why I voted for it because I really think it will help children concentrate better, it’s not a total take away from cell phones, it’s just a statement that schools have the right to decide when they can use them and when they can’t.

State Sen. Blake Miguez, R-New Iberia, also said in a statement to KATC:

“Today, our children’s eyesight is on electronic devices, which has become a major distraction in Louisiana and the United States. It is imperative that we refocus our children’s attention on education during learning activities, while at the same time helping our teachers to continually discipline students during learning activities.”

To read SB 207 for yourself, see below: