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January 15, 2025

Andrew Campbell 

On January 13, Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva approved legislation restricting the use of cellphones in elementary and secondary schools. Beginning in February, Brazilian children will be unable to use their smartphones in school. 

Brazil's Congress had earlier passed laws prohibiting cell phone use in elementary and secondary schools beginning December 20, 2024. The law aims to reduce the negative effects of mobile devices on children's and adolescents' health and education. The legislation will prohibit students from using mobile devices during school hours, resulting in a healthier learning environment. 

Many parents and students also backed the decision. A survey conducted in October 2024 by Brazilian pollster Datafolha found that over two-thirds of respondents supported restricting children and teens from using smartphones at school. More than three-quarters believe that these devices do more harm than benefit to their children.