SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Many school districts across Illinois have instituted cell phone bans to help students focus during class. Now, Gov. JB Pritzker wants the policy enforced statewide.

"There is real harm being done by social media platforms," Pritzker said Friday. "It interferes with our ability to give children the most productive educational environment possible, and frankly it’s just time to get cell phones out of the classroom. They’re distracting."

A bipartisan plan could require school districts to adopt policies to ensure students do not use their cell phones during instructional time in a way that meets the needs of their own community.

Each district will need to allow for exceptions in cases of emergencies, student health, fulfilling an IEP or when the device is used for translation services for students who are second language learners.

Sponsors said teachers could also be allowed to incorporate cell phones for educational purposes.

"Nearly 75% of U.S. high school teachers say cell phone distraction is a major problem in their classes," said Sen. Cristina Castro (D-Elgin). "It impairs students’ ability to focus, lowers test scores, harms mental health, facilitates bullying and disrupts the learning environment for other students."

This idea gained unanimous support in the Senate last spring, but House leaders paused movement of the bill to fine tune the legislation.

Rep. Michelle Mussman (D-Schaumburg) said schools will not be allowed to enforce cell phone bans through fines, fees or deployment of school resource officers and local law enforcement.

"We now need to adapt our policies to foster a more positive learning environment and healthier boundaries between our developing young people and their cell phones," Mussman said.

Senate Bill 2427 could be discussed during a House Education Policy Committee hearing Wednesday morning. 

More Coverage:

Democrats bash bill banning abortion in Illinois

IL bill could require grocery stores with digital coupons to provide paper option for customers despite retailer concerns

IL Democrats file bill banning tear gas following Operation Midway Blitz

Pritzker proposes $56 billion Fiscal Year 2027 budget

Copyright 2026. WAND TV. All rights reserved.