Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers signed into law a bipartisan bill creating a statewide ban on cellphone use in public school classrooms. The new law, 2025 Wisconsin Act 42, requires school boards to adopt policies prohibiting students from using wireless communication devices, including cellphones, during school hours by July 1st of next year.
While the governor expressed reservations about the measure, Evers said his decision ultimately came down to what he believes is best for Wisconsin’s children. “It has always been my belief that decisions like this should be made at the local level,” Evers said. “Nevertheless, my promise to the people of Wisconsin is to always do what’s best for our kids… and that obligation weighs heavily on me.”
Under the law, school-issued devices are exempt, and districts may allow cellphone use in emergencies, for health needs, or for approved educational purposes.
State Representative Joel Kitchens, author of the original bill, has been lobbying for the bill to pass since its introduction earlier this year. The State Assembly passed the bill in February and then by the Senate last month. Kitchens has also previously stated that while national talking points are nice, he says local districts have also thrown their support behind the effort.
A Wisconsin Policy Forum report found most districts already restrict phone use, but the new law sets a uniform statewide standard. Research from the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health and national studies suggest phone bans improve student focus, reduce psychological distress, and foster stronger peer connections.
