Governor Laura Kelly signs bill banning cellphone use for K-12 students

On March 19, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly signed a bill banning cell phones in schools across the state for K-12 students.

The law requires schools to securely store away devices like smartphones, smartwatches, and earbuds from students during the school day, establishing consequences for violations. The bill is a mandate by the state that forces schools to allocate money toward storing and tracking student’s cellular devices without additional state funding.

“Districts are going to be required to adopt policies, they’re going to have to train staff, develop storage solutions,” said Annmarie Bush, director of communications for the Kansas National Education Association.

Some teachers are for the new legislation, saying it reduces distractions in the classroom.

“We do want students to have a successful learning experience. As an educator, sometimes it’s hard when students have their cellphones out,” Bush said.

The legislation is not set to take effect until the start of the 2026-2027 school year.

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