I am an Arizona resident, deeply concerned about the recent bill proposed to ban phones entirely during school hours in our state. I believe this is not a solution, but rather a potentially dangerous move. The reality of our world includes the alarming prevalence of school shootings. In the event of a lockdown or emergency, our children and educators need to be able to communicate with the outside world.

According to a report from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund, there were at least 130 shootings in K-12 schools in 2019, an average of nearly one school shooting per week. This statistic underscores the urgent need for students and staff to have immediate access to communication devices. Denying access to phones won't only affect students' ability to communicate during emergencies but also with their families before and after school hours.

This bill may seem like it encourages focus on education, deterring distractions provided by cell phones. However, the potential dangers far outweigh these benefits. We must consider the safety risks and the realities we face today. It is therefore incumbent upon us, as responsible citizens, to call for the reform of this proposed bill.

We urge lawmakers and school officials to reevaluate this proposal. Alternatives like establishing strict screen time rules, providing secure storage for phones or allowing limited usage during breaks might achieve the bill’s original aims without compromising safety.

We ask not for a total abandonment of the bill but for adjustments aligning it with our contemporary necessities. The solution should consider both the educational environment and the safety of our children and educators. Your support for this petition is an essential step towards this balance. Please, stand with us in urging the Arizona authorities to reform this bill. Sign our petition today.