Gov. Kay Ivey supporting effort to ban phones in Alabama schools

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) — When it comes to education, Gov. Kay Ivey wants to put an end to distraction in the classroom. She said the Focus Act will do just that.

Today, Gov. Ivey told Montgomery business leaders at a Chamber of Commerce meeting she wants to ban cell phone use for Alabama students, K-12. The Focus Act states phones must be put in a locker, backpack, car, or similar storage location. But, it does allow students to use them in the event of an emergency.

“Now, don’t get me wrong. Our phones and social media are fantastic tools,” said Gov. Ivey. “But, we have to know the time, place, and how to use them.”

The act requires students to learn how to use those tools. That means completing a social media safety course before entering eighth grade. Rep. Leigh Hulsey (R-Helena) said she brought the bill because, data shows that phones are increasing anxiety and stress. She explained some schools have already put a phone policy in place.

“When they put this policy in place, they said they started hearing laughter in their halls again,” said Hulsey. “Kids are high fiving each other, saying hey. They’re meeting new people at lunch. And I think those are some things that we’re missing with this generation.”

Rep. Barbara Drummond (D-Mobile) believes phones should be put away. But, she said the exceptions made in the bill don’t do enough to protect children if something happens at school. “In the bill, they’re gonna be able to have them on campus, their lockers. That’s not a workable solution for me,” she said.

While some parents are also concerned, Hulsey assured that they will still be able to communicate with their kids. “The priority here is really, keeping our kids safe while maintaining a focused learning environment. But, I want parents to know that I hear you, I understand your concern, and those concerns have been addressed in this legislation,” said Hulsey.

There is a House, and a Senate version of the bill moving through the legislature. They are heading to the floor in both chambers.