Peach Tree Times

State Representative Scott Hilton of Peachtree Corners has introduced a new bill aimed at reducing distractions in Georgia's public schools for students in grades K-8. The legislation, known as the Distraction-Free Schools Act or HB 340, seeks to limit student access to cell phones and other digital devices during school hours.

Rep. Hilton stated, "Our schools should be places of learning, free from the distractions of social media and non-educational screen time." He emphasized that the bill is designed to help students focus on education, personal development, and mental health. Hilton highlighted that this initiative is part of a growing national movement towards phone-free schools.

Research cited by Rep. Hilton includes work by social psychologist Dr. Jonathan Haidt and data from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which indicate that excessive phone use negatively affects student mental health, focus, and academic performance. Studies suggest that limiting phone access can lead to improved classroom engagement and healthier social interactions among students.

The trend towards restricting cell phone use in schools is gaining momentum nationwide. In 2024 alone, 19 states passed bills or enacted policies to restrict cell phone use in schools or encouraged local districts to establish their own restrictions. Many more states are considering similar legislation this year.

Teachers have reported that phones cause disruptions in classrooms, making instruction more challenging. A survey found that over half of Georgia teachers view cell phones and social media as significant issues across all grades. Additionally, 85 percent of high school teachers and 68 percent of middle school teachers identified phones as problematic.

Loreal Burns, an educator from Marietta and parent of a high school freshman, expressed support for the legislation: "Reducing distractions helps students stay focused, improve academically, and develop essential social skills."

The proposed bill has been formally introduced in the Georgia House of Representatives.