Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R-VA) signed an executive order Tuesday calling for Virginia’s public schools to restrict or eliminate cellphone use in class, citing poor youth mental health associated with social media use.

The order directs the Virginia Department of Education to develop guidance for school districts to implement a “cell phone-free” environment while keeping protocols in place for children to be able to contact their parents during an emergency situation.

Recommended Stories

Virginia cracks down on social media to combat youth mental health crisis

Youngkin touts Virginia’s progress on chronic absenteeism recovery: ‘We will not stop’

Majority of teachers say they do not have enough control over curriculum: Poll