Patricia Levesque, Executive Director of the Foundation for Florida’s Future, has commented on the Florida House of Representatives’ approval of House Bill 949, which aims to increase phone-free policies during school hours.
“Florida was the first state in the nation to act on the urgent need to create phone-free instructional time and reestablish distraction-free learning environments for our students and teachers,” Levesque stated.
She added, “Now, Florida House leaders are going a step further with a proposal to make the entire school day phone-free and join a growing number of states that are enacting similar legislation to support students in deepening their learning, building relationships and strengthening engagement—inside and outside of the classroom.”
Levesque expressed gratitude towards Representative Demi Busatta for leading the initiative described as an “important anti-distraction policy” aimed at improving the school environment and student well-being. She noted her anticipation for the Senate’s prompt approval, citing “broad, bipartisan support” for the proposal.
House Bill 949 seeks to enhance Florida’s present policy, expanding phone-free instruction to cover the entire school day. It allows exceptions for students with an Individualized Education Plan, 504 Plan, or documented medical need requiring electronic devices during school hours.
