(The Center Square) – The Georgia Senate passed a bill 54-2 on Tuesday that would require K-8 schools to have a policy on cellphone use.

House Bill 340 bans electronic devices from “bell to bell,” with some exceptions for students with learning disabilities or medical issues.

“With cellphone use among children at an all-time high, we must take action to protect the integrity of our classrooms,” said Rep. Scott Hilton, R-Peachtree Corners. “Studies overwhelmingly show that limiting phone access significantly increases students’ focus, reduces distractions and fosters a more effective learning environment. HB340 is a step in the right direction toward ensuring that classrooms remain a place for education where teachers can teach, and our brightest minds can learn.”

School systems can decide how they want to store the devices, according to the bill.

High schools are not addressed in the legislation, but it doesn’t keep school districts from enacting cellphone policies for grades 9-12, Hilton said during a committee meeting.

Several education groups backed the bill.

“Research shows that distraction-free classrooms lead to greater student engagement, stronger social interactions with peers and teachers and improved academic performance,” said Miranda Williams, Southeast legislative director for ExcelinEd in Action, in a General Assembly news release. “This important first step paves the way for future legislation to ensure distraction-free learning environments for all Georgia students.”

The House of Representatives passed the bill 143-29 on March 4.