Washington and Netherlands Propose Bans on School Phone Use
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson and the Dutch Cabinet have proposed bans on mobile devices in schools to improve student focus and mental health.
Governments in Washington state and the Netherlands are moving to restrict mobile device use in schools to combat distractions and mental health risks.
Bob Ferguson, Governor of Washington, proposed the Phone-Free Schools Act during an event in Spokane. The legislation would implement a bell-to-bell ban on smartphones and smartwatches, requiring students to keep devices powered off and stored in secure locations like lockable pouches or classroom caddies. Ferguson intends to prefile the Governor Request Bill on December 7 for lawmakers to consider in January. The act would provide exceptions for students with medical accommodations or Individualized Education Programs. While some districts have already restricted devices, a state survey found that roughly one-third of Washington districts currently have no device policies. If passed, Washington would join 31 other states and the District of Columbia with similar restrictions.
Simultaneously, the Dutch Cabinet is calling for a nationwide ban on mobile phones in primary and secondary schools starting January 1, 2027. Digital Economy Minister Willemijn Aerdts detailed the proposal in a Strategy Letter on Children’s Rights, which would prohibit phone use throughout the school day, including during breaks. Because the government cannot legally mandate the ban, the education ministry is seeking voluntary agreements with schools. This effort is part of a larger strategy to protect children from addictive algorithms, including a proposal to raise the minimum social media age to 15.
