The Pennsylvania Senate passed the bipartisan “Bell-to-Bell” bill that would establish statewide standards to restrict the use of cell phones by students during the school day.

The State Senate’s vote took place just hours after Gov. Josh Shapiro renewed his support for the legislation during his annual budget address on Feb. 3. Proponents of the bill say that restricting the use of cell phones by students will create a better, safer learning environment.

The legislation will now head to the State House.

State Rep. Mandy Steele, a Democrat from Allegheny County, expressed strong support for Gov. Shapiro’s renewed backing of restrictions on cell phone use in Pennsylvania schools.

“This proposal is gaining momentum -- as it should,” Steele said. “Research consistently shows the benefits of limiting cell phone use in schools, and educators regularly identify it as a key issue. The governor’s support will be invaluable as we work to create a safer, more focused learning environment for all Pennsylvania students.”             

Steele has introduced H.B. 1814, bipartisan legislation that would prohibit students in public schools from using or possessing a cell phone during the school day. Students would be required to secure their phones in a way that prevents access until the end of the day, with exceptions for certain emergency and medical needs approved by school authorities.

While discussing education in his budget address, Shapiro urged legislators to send a bill banning cell phones in schools to his desk.

“Supporting our kids means investing more dollars in our schools and also ensuring they have a healthy, productive learning environment,” Shapiro said. “One way to do that is to get the distraction of cell phones out of their classrooms.”

After receiving a round of applause, the governor added with a smile, “If applause could vote, we’d have this thing done already.”

More than 30 states currently restrict cell phone use in schools. Twenty-three states enforce a full “bell-to-bell” ban, also known as an “away for a day” policy, while eight states limit use only during instructional time, according to Education Week.