SPRINGFIELD — Teenagers who spend five or more hours per day on electronic devices are 71% more likely to demonstrate risk factors for suicide — an alarming phenomenon State Senator Cristina Castro is determined to change.

“My legislation takes social media out of the classroom so students can focus on what’s important: learning,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “This measure sets a standard to limit cellphone use during class time but prioritizes flexibility, letting schools take the lead in deciding how it should be implemented in their local community.”

Studies have shown that the mere presence of a smartphone reduces available cognitive capacity — especially for young people who are highly dependent on the devices. Research from over 70 countries and regions with strict school cellphone policies has found that the restrictions resulted in decreased instances of bullying, better attention and focus, and increases in standardized test scores.

Through Castro’s proposal, school districts in Illinois would be required to adopt a set of policies ensuring students do not inappropriately use cellphones during instructional time in a way that meets the needs of their school community. Each school district’s policy would need to allow for exceptions in cases such as emergencies and for technology used by students with disabilities, and teachers would still be able to authorize their use for educational purposes.

Senate Bill 2427 passed the Senate Wednesday with bipartisan support.