New York lawmakers challenge Hochul’s proposed ‘bell-to-bell’ cell phone ban in schools

New York lawmakers are pushing back against Governor Kathy Hochul’s proposal for a statewide “bell-to-bell” cell phone ban in schools. The plan, which was outlined as part of Hochul’s executive budget, seeks to restrict cell phone use on school grounds during both instructional and non-instructional time. However, members of the state Senate are calling for more flexibility, proposing that school districts be given the option to allow cell phones outside of classroom hours.
Hochul’s proposal, which includes $13.5 million in funding for schools to implement the ban, is designed to limit smartphone distractions across New York state schools. But as reported by Spectrum News, Senate lawmakers argue that the decision to restrict cell phone use should be left to individual school districts, allowing them to decide whether phones should be allowed during lunch, recess, or passing periods.
Senate’s push for flexibility
In a move to address concerns from superintendents and school officials, the state Senate released its one-house budget resolution on March 11, 2025, proposing changes to the governor’s policy. According to Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, the flexibility would allow districts to tailor policies to the specific needs of their students and communities. “We’ve heard from superintendents who want more flexibility in the policy,” she said during a press conference, as reported by Spectrum News.

The Senate’s proposal also includes a ban on suspending students for using their phones. While the governor’s plan includes provisions for schools to store phones during the school day, the Senate argues that such decisions should not be made uniformly across the state.
Hochul stands firm on her policy
Despite the Senate’s opposition, Governor Hochul remains committed to the “bell-to-bell” policy. “This is what the experts say, this is what the parents want, this is what the teachers want,” Hochul said in a press conference on March 11, 2025, as quoted by Spectrum News. The governor’s office maintains that the proposal will help students focus on their studies and reduce distractions, benefiting their overall academic performance.
The road ahead
As the debate continues, lawmakers will negotiate the details of the proposed budget, which also includes tax rebate checks and other financial policies. The outcome of this debate could have significant implications for students, teachers, and parents across New York state as they await a final decision on the future of cell phone use in schools.