Overview

• The Senate approved the measure 29–4, advancing it to Gov. Tony Evers for potential signature.
• The bill requires local school boards to adopt rules prohibiting student cell phone use during instructional time.
• Supporters, including Sen. Rachael Cabral-Guevara, argue phones impair learning and cite a Marquette poll showing 89% support for instructional-time limits and 72% for an overall ban.
• Opponents, led by Sen. Melissa Ratcliff, warn of reduced local control and safety risks during lockdowns, noting her daughter's texts during the December 2024 shooting near Abundant Life Christian School in Madison.
• The push comes as other states impose school phone restrictions, with Cabral-Guevara characterizing Wisconsin's debate as unusually partisan.