ELGIN, Ill. () — Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker on Tuesday signed SB 2427 into law, creating a statewide ban on cellphone use in public schools during the school day.
Supporters say the measure is designed to cut down on classroom distractions and help students stay focused on learning.
Under the new Illinois school cellphone law, districts must create and enforce a “bell-to-bell” policy that limits student access to cellphones from the first bell of the day through final dismissal.
A number of public school districts and private schools across the state already have similar cellphone restrictions in place.
The law is scheduled to take effect with the 2027-2028 school year.
Pritzker signed the legislation during an event at Elgin High School.
Beginning Sept. 1, the Illinois State Board of Education will provide districts with a model policy intended to guide local conversations with families, educators and community members.
By the start of the 2027-2028 academic year, Illinois schools are expected to have their finalized cellphone policies in place.
The bill allows exceptions for school-issued devices; the ultimate goal is personal growth.
RELATED | Our Chicago: What to know about the proposed ‘bell-to-bell’ school cellphone ban
Exceptions include medical needs, to fulfill an Individualized Education Plan or 504 plan, students who are English learners and students who are caregivers.
Districts will be allowed to decide if high school students can access their phone during lunch or passing periods and potential emergencies.
School district U-46, which includes Elgin High School, has had policies in place banning cell phones for the last couple of years.
Students at Evanston High School are on their cell phones during passing periods.
But during classroom time, cell phones are off-limits.
It’s the same story at Streamwood High School. Students must put them in pouches at the start of classes.
Anthony Foster Jr., an incoming senior at Elgin High School, says he’s OK with the new rules. But some of his friends might not be.
“Kids are probably not gonna like it, but I understand. It’s gonna be better for our school with grades because a lot of people are distracted on their phones,” Foster said.
Educators say cell phones and other technology have become an impediment to learning in school.
“We really want kids to pay attention in class. Our teachers in Illinois are excellent, and we want to make sure our kids get the most out of their experience with their teachers,” Pritzker said.
The governor says the law should improve student engagement and mental health while decreasing issues like bullying.
Classroom cell phones bans are becoming more common in schools across the country.
Indiana Gov. Mike Braun signed a similar bill in the Hoosier state in May. And the Illinois state school superintendent says in many cases students are leading the way.
“Students by and large have agreed that phones are a major distraction, and they’re looking for ways to minimize phone usage during the day,” Illinois State School Superintendent Tony Sanders said.
