Governor JB Pritzker is advocating for a ban on cell phones in Illinois classrooms, aiming to improve student engagement and mental health. The proposal, expected to be endorsed during his State of the State address, requires school districts to adopt policies that limit phone use during instructional periods, effective in the 2026-2027 school year. With support from educators and positive results from pilot programs, the initiative joins a trend seen in eight other states. Exceptions will be made for emergencies, teacher approval, and student needs, promoting a screen-free educational environment.