Cell phone bans in school are ramping up as more states consider policies that have been cheered by many educators but still face trepidation from parents.

New York and New Jersey are the latest looking at state-wide bans, with the aim to lower cyberbullying and help increase student focus.

“We've really seen a steep increase in in the movement of phones-free schools, and I think the momentum is just going to keep continuing as more and more states issue some kind of ban or restriction,” said Sabine Polak, co-founder of the Phone-Free Schools Movement.

At least eight states, both red and blue, have enacted bans or restrictions of cell phones in schools.

Most recently, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy (D) said in his State of the State address he wanted to implement cell phone restrictions in all public schools.

“They are fueling a rise in cyberbullying. And they are making it incredibly difficult for our kids, not only to learn, but to retain the substance of what they learn. Honestly, is it any surprise that the rise in smartphone usage has coincided with a growing youth mental health crisis?” Murphy said.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D), meanwhile, said she would put the legislation in her proposal for next fiscal year’s budget. If........

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