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Steele: Social media addiction verdict underscores need for restrictions on cell phones in schools

Rep. Mandy Steele    March 26, 2026 | 2:32 PM

HARRISBURG, March 26 — Wednesday’s jury verdict in a landmark lawsuit against social media companies Meta and YouTube reveals the harm that digital media can have on young people and underscores the need for restrictions on cell phones in schools, state Rep. Mandy Steele said today.

“This verdict highlights the fact that social media is addictive and leads to mental health problems, and that the companies themselves are more interested in their own profit than our children’s health and well-being,” said Steele, D-Allegheny. “As legislators, we have a responsibility to ensure that our children’s learning environment is free from the same harmful digital media that has been under the microscope in this court case.”

Steele has introduced H.B. 1814, bipartisan legislation that would prohibit students in public schools from using or possessing a cell phone during the school day. Students would be required to secure their phones in a way that prevents access until the end of the day, with exceptions for certain emergency and medical needs approved by school authorities.

ATTENTION REPORTERS: Rep. Steele will be available to discuss this issue through on-camera interviews in person, by phone or via Zoom.  

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