Cox backs ‘bell-to-bell’ cellphone ban in Utah schools

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox is backing a proposal to ban student cellphone use “bell to bell” throughout the school day, with limited exceptions. Photo: Unsplash // Adam AY

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah Gov. Spencer Cox is backing a new proposal that would bar students from using cellphones throughout the entire school day — not just during class time — arguing phones are undermining learning and student social development.

The Salt Lake Tribune reported Cox announced his support Wednesday for SB69, sponsored by Sen. Lincoln Fillmore, R-South Jordan, which would prohibit student cellphone use “bell to bell,” with limited exceptions.

Lawmakers last year passed a narrower restriction, SB178, which limited phone use during classroom instruction but allowed students to use devices between classes, at lunch, and during recess, while also giving districts some flexibility. Cox signed that bill but said at the time he preferred an all-day ban.

Fillmore said Wednesday he regretted not pushing for a broader policy last year and framed SB69 as the next step. Cox and Fillmore also pointed to other states that have adopted bell-to-bell restrictions, describing the issue as one that draws bipartisan agreement.

The proposed ban includes exceptions for emergencies, use of the SafeUT Crisis Line, medical needs, and certain circumstances tied to a student’s individualized education program, according to the Tribune’s report.

Cox also acknowledged his own struggles with phone-based habits, saying he removed the social media app X from his phone about three weeks ago — an experience he said made him more sympathetic to how hard it is for students to ignore constant digital pull.