NE Valley Times

Arizona schools will soon implement stricter policies to reduce cellphone distractions in classrooms, following the signing of new legislation. The law, known as HB2484, was passed with bipartisan support and mandates public school districts and charter schools to limit student access to social media and wireless devices. However, it allows reasonable access for emergencies, medical needs, and educational purposes.

The bill's sponsor, Republican State Representative Beverly Pingerelli, emphasized the importance of the law in restoring classroom discipline and academic focus. "Education requires attention, and attention is exactly what today’s students are being robbed of by addictive devices and endless scrolling," said Representative Pingerelli. "We’ve drawn a clear line: Arizona classrooms are for learning, not TikTok. Teachers can finally reclaim their classrooms, and parents can feel confident their kids are actually focused on school—not their screens."

HB2484 requires schools to enforce policies that govern internet access, restrict social media use, and limit cellphone usage during school hours. Exceptions are made for emergencies, medical conditions, and teacher-directed academic activities.

The legislation supports the House Republican Majority Plan aimed at improving education outcomes by strengthening student focus and empowering parents. "Teachers shouldn’t have to compete with YouTube and Instagram to be heard," Representative Pingerelli added. "HB2484 refocuses kids on learning, empowering parents, and backing up teachers."

Beverly Pingerelli represents Legislative District 28 in Peoria, Sun City, Sun City West, and Phoenix in the Arizona House of Representatives.

Information from this article can be found here.