DeWine to Host Press Conference Supporting Bill to Ban Cell Phones in Schools.

On Tuesday morning, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine will host a press conference in support of Senate Bill 158. Sponsored by Sen. Jane Timken (R-Jackson Township), the bill would ban student use of cell phones during the school day in Ohio.

Governor DeWine introduced similar language to ban cell phones in schools as part of his executive budget proposal. Following the enactment of a new law last year requiring school districts to implement policies to address the use of cell phones in schools, many districts that chose to ban cell phones have already noted improvement in student engagement, attendance, grades, socialization, and communication.

The Governor will also be joined for the press conference by Tina Husted, former Second Lady of Ohio and a champion for protecting children online. As Second Lady, Husted supported Braden’s Law. Signed by Governor DeWine in January, Braden’s Law takes effect this week, making sexual extortion a felony offense in Ohio.

During the press conference, Husted will discuss strategies parents can use to be more aware of what their children are doing on their phones, including having regular and open conversations with their children about the dangers they may face online so they know what to do and who to turn to if they feel unsafe.