South Dakota House lawmakers killed a bill Thursday that would have limited student cellphone use during the school day, ending a long debate over statewide rules, youth mental health, and local control.
The House vote was 28-39, with three members excused.
Senate Bill 198 would have added language restricting student phone use “during the school day,” with the school-day definition set by local school boards. The bill’s prime sponsor in the Senate is Sen. Chris Karr, R-Sioux Falls. Rep. Taylor Rehfeldt, R-Sioux Falls, carried the bill in the House and moved the bill’s main floor amendment.
The House adopted the amendment by voice vote, then by division. It clarified when students could still use a phone: for approved medical or educational accommodations, including 504 plans and individualized education programs; if a teacher permits it as part of a lesson plan; or during an emergency affecting health, safety, or well-being. It also requires each school board to adopt a policy spelling out disciplinary actions for noncompliance.
Why it matters
The fight over SB 198 wasn’t about whether phones distract students — most lawmakers said they do — but whether Pierre should set a statewide baseline. Supporters argued uneven local rules leave teachers stuck as the “bad guy” and expose students to bullying and harmful content during school hours. Opponents said districts already have policies, and a state mandate would be rigid in communities with different needs.
Rep. John Shubeck, R-Beresford, said he respected the intent but argued the state should not dictate a one-size-fits-all answer.
“I think this is something that we should leave up to local control and let each school district decide what’s best for them,” Shubeck said.
Supporters leaned hard on youth mental health, including concerns about anxiety and the constant pull of notifications. Rep. Erik Muckey, D-Sioux Falls, told the House he had “wrestled” with the bill because the local-control argument is “legitimate,” but he said he also sees the mental health stakes through his work history.
Rehfeldt closed by framing the bill as a parent’s boundary line. She told lawmakers she wants school to be “full of learning and joy,” not a place where kids get pulled into bad content and social-media drama during the day.
With the House vote, SB 198 is likely dead for the session.
Todd Epp | South Dakota Broadcasters Association