News Summary
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey pushes for the FOCUS Act, a proposed cell phone ban in public schools to reduce distractions and enhance student focus. Surveys reveal high support from educators, and the bill mandates internet safety policies and social media education for students. Alongside public safety initiatives, Ivey aims to create a safer, more focused learning environment amid rising crime rates.
Huntsville, Alabama
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has prioritized a proposed cell phone ban in public schools and new public safety legislation as the state’s legislative session nears its conclusion. Speaking at the Huntsville-Madison County Chamber luncheon on May 5, 2025, Ivey emphasized the critical nature of these issues, highlighting the potential impact of the FOCUS Act on students and public safety.
The FOCUS Act, which has garnered bipartisan support in the legislature, prohibits the use of wireless communication devices during the instructional day for K-12 students starting in the 2026-27 school year. Under this legislation, students will be required to store their cell phones in lockers, backpacks, cars, or similar places during school hours, allowing for a distraction-free learning environment. Exceptions will be available for students with disabilities or specific health needs as outlined in their education or health plans. Students may still use devices for educational purposes or in emergencies, but only with permission.
A recent survey revealed that 72% of high school teachers believe cell phones distract students, corroborating Ivey’s stance that reducing mobile device usage during instruction is fundamental to enhancing focus and well-being in schools. Data further suggests that teenagers spend nearly five hours each day on social media, raising concerns about its negative effects on mental health and academic performance.
The FOCUS Act also includes mandates for local school boards to adopt internet safety policies. It requires that students complete a social media safety course before entering the eighth grade. These measures aim to educate young people on responsible online behavior and promote safer interactions on social platforms.
Legislative Support and Implementation Timeline
The Alabama Senate has already passed the FOCUS Act, known officially as Senate Bill 92, without opposition. The companion bill in the House, HB166, cleared the chamber on April 3, 2025. Local education boards must implement their wireless communication device policies by July 1, 2025, ensuring that the new regulations are in place for the upcoming school year.
Public Safety Initiatives
In addition to the FOCUS Act, Ivey has made public safety a key aspect of her legislative agenda. She commended Huntsville State Senator Sam Givhan for his role in supporting public safety initiatives through the Senate Judiciary Committee. Ivey’s recent work has included signing legislation aimed at reducing violent crime, such as banning illegal Glock switches and addressing the issue of impersonating law enforcement officers with the Officer Impersonation Act.
Another significant development under Ivey’s public safety push is Senate Bill 119, which expands the list of individuals prohibited from firearm possession after having been charged with a crime. Ivey is optimistic that other related bills concerning public safety will be forthcoming and welcomed by the legislature.
Conclusion
With the legislative session drawing to a close, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey’s focus on enacting the FOCUS Act and bolstering public safety legislation demonstrates an effort to enhance the learning environment for students while addressing broader community issues. These measures reflect a response to the growing concerns surrounding technology use among youth and the pressing need for ensuring community safety amid rising crime rates.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Governor Ivey Advocates for Huntsville as U.S. Space Command Headquarters
Huntsville Halts Monte Sano Subdivision Construction Due to Flooding
Governor Kay Ivey Signs New Gun Violence Legislation
New Businesses Opening in Huntsville Area Include Cafés, a Sandwich Shop, and a Healthcare Facility
Trial Begins for Shaniqua Brown in 2019 Murder Case
States Unite to Challenge Trump Administration’s Wind Energy Halt
Alabama’s Minority Scholarships face Federal Scrutiny
Trump Addresses Transgender Athletes in Alabama Speech
Trump’s Controversial Commencement Address in Birmingham
Governor Ivey Urges Legislative Action on FOCUS Act
Additional Resources
- WSFA: Bill to Restrict Cell Phones in Alabama Public Schools Passes Senate
- WHNT: Gov. Kay Ivey Supporting Effort to Ban Phones in Alabama Schools
- WVTM: Alabama Senate Passes Cellphone School Ban
- Troy Messenger: Senate Passes Bill to Curtail Cellphone Use at Schools
- Wikipedia: Cell Phone Use in Schools
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
