HARRISBURG – April 28, 2026 − Sens. Devlin Robinson (R-37), Vincent Hughes (D-7) and Steve Santarseiro (D-10) issued the following joint statement following the approval of Senate Bill 1014 by the House Education Committee:
“Today’s passage of Senate Bill 1014 is an significant step toward restoring focus, connection and balance in our classrooms. Students deserve a learning environment free from the constant distractions of cell phones and social media.
“This legislation establishes a clear, consistent statewide standard prohibiting the use of cell phones during the school day, while giving school districts the flexibility to implement the policy in a way that is best for their communities. It also includes appropriate exceptions for medical needs, individualized education programs, English language learners, and use for instructional purposes with teacher permission.”
“The statewide phone-free school policy is supported by a strong, bipartisan coalition of teachers, parents and even students across Pennsylvania who are deeply concerned about the impact of smartphones on academic performance, mental health and social development. Excessive screen time and constant notifications contribute to increases in anxiety, depression and cyberbullying, while also impeding valuable personal interaction and learning. Since the beginning of 2010, cases of teen depression have increased by approximately 150% while suicide rates among children aged 10–14 have tripled in the years 2007–2021, which will correspond to the growing popularity of smartphones and social media.
“By creating schools without phones, we give students the opportunity to better engage in classroom activities, build stronger relationships with peers and teachers, and develop healthier habits.
“We look forward to continuing consideration of this bipartisan legislation in the House and remain committed to supporting policies that put the well-being and success of students first.”
Although Senate Bill 1014 was amended by the House Education Committee, the original language remained largely intact, ensuring that the bill’s true goal of creating phone-free schools remained. If passed into law, Pennsylvania would join 28 states with cellphone restrictions for students, including 19 states that enforce bell-to-bell bans.
The bill will now go to the full House of Representatives for consideration.
More information can be found on the Santarsiero website.
Video of Senator Robinson’s remarks.
Video of Senator Santarsiero’s remarks.
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