State Representative Jamie Flick explained on June 2 his decision-making process regarding House Bill 1814, which would ban the possession and use of cell phones and other mobile devices by students in kindergarten through twelfth grade during school hours in both public and private schools across Pennsylvania, with certain exemptions included in the legislation.
Flick said that while he initially leaned toward supporting the bill due to concerns about classroom distractions, he reconsidered after reflecting on the importance of local control. “My instinct was to vote ‘yes.’ I believe cell phone use is hindering education in classrooms, with students of all ages distracted by whatever content is more interesting than the subject at hand,” Flick said. He added that his initial support was based on a belief that legislation was needed to address cell phone usage in schools.
However, Flick said he then thought about his belief in small government and questioned whether such decisions should be left to locally elected school boards: “School districts elect people to make policies that fit their educational needs, isn’t that the role of a school board? My vote then swung to ‘no.'” After further consideration—including discussions with local superintendents and school board presidents—Flick noted that approximately 420 out of 500 school districts statewide already have their own policies addressing student cell phone use. In his district, he observed varying approaches seemed effective for each community.
“Making these decisions is what local elected officials, school board directors, are elected to do. I voted ‘no,'” Flick said. He also stated: “House Bill 1814 does not resolve all conflicts, build trust or promote fairness regarding the autonomy school districts need to meet the needs of students, teachers and administrators.” The bill passed the House by a vote of 126 to 75; support and opposition came from both parties.
The measure now heads to the Senate—which has already passed a similar bill—for consideration of amendments made by the House before a final vote. Flick represents Pennsylvania’s 83rd Legislative District, according to the official website. He has volunteered as a mentor for foster children, coached youth sports, founded Susquehanna Software—a human services software provider—and sponsored legislation aimed at reforming child custody laws.
