COLUMBUS, Ohio — Governor Mike DeWine is calling for a statewide ban on student cell phone use in public schools, throwing his support behind Senate Bill 158, introduced by Senator Jane Timken (R-Jackson Township). During a press conference held Tuesday, DeWine emphasized that the bill would eliminate classroom distractions, improve academic performance, and support students’ mental and emotional well-being.
“It’s clear that we need to get cell phones out of our classrooms,” DeWine said. “The constant distraction makes it nearly impossible for students to focus and learn.”
If passed, the legislation would prohibit the use of student cell phones during the school day, with the new rules taking effect by the 2025-2026 school year. Exceptions would apply for students with medical needs or those using phones as part of an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Timken described the legislation as a “common sense approach” to reduce distractions and promote interpersonal development among students. Senator Andrew Brenner (R-Delaware), who previously worked on House Bill 250, said this legislation continues efforts to establish clearer school policies on personal devices.
Also present at the press event was Dr. John Marschhausen, Superintendent of Dublin City Schools, which has already implemented a phone ban. He shared that the district has seen improvements in student engagement and strong support from parents and the business community.
“Graduating students who can work without a device in their hands is critical,” Marschhausen said. “But it also takes families working together outside of school hours.”
Former Second Lady of Ohio Tina Husted also joined the conference, advocating for parental involvement in managing children’s online activities. Husted, a key supporter of Braden’s Law, which addresses online sextortion, stressed the dangers of social media and online predators.
“Online safety for our children is one of the most critical issues of our time,” Husted said. She encouraged parents to set screen time limits, install monitoring apps, and avoid allowing kids to sleep with their phones.
Governor DeWine said the legislation is about more than just academics. “It’s about creating safer, more supportive learning environments,” he said. “This is an opportunity to make a real difference in our children’s lives.”
Senate Bill 158 is currently under review and, if passed, would give schools the summer to update policies before the new school year begins.
