For the 1 in 4 teens with ‘problematic smartphone use,’ Pennsylvania’s proposed bell-to-bell cellphone ban might not be a simple solution

Heavy smartphone and social media use among kids can lead to poor sleep, anxiety and depression, bullying, attention difficulties and academic challenges. EMS-Forster-Productions/DigitalVision Collection via Getty Images

Pennsylvania is moving toward a statewide “bell-to-bell” cellphone ban in public schools.

The state Senate and House of Representatives have advanced companion bills that would require students in grades K-12 to keep cellphones turned off or stored away in lockers, backpacks or designated classroom storage pouches for the entire school day.