Brooklyn, NY (June 1, 2026)

Gov. Kathy Hochul said Monday that New York may consider new limits on classroom screen time, signaling that the state’s push to reduce digital distractions in schools could expand beyond smartphones.

Speaking during a school roundtable in Brooklyn, Hochul said concerns from parents and educators have increasingly focused on younger students’ use of laptops, tablets, and other classroom devices. She said any future policy would require a careful review process involving educators, experts, families, and other stakeholders before the state moves forward.

The comments come after New York’s statewide school smartphone restrictions received positive early feedback from educators. According to survey findings discussed by the governor, a large majority of roughly 600 teachers reported that the phone policy improved classroom conditions, including student focus, peer interaction, and overall engagement.

The discussion is now shifting toward whether similar concerns apply to school-issued technology, particularly in early grades. Some educators and parent advocates have questioned whether young children benefit from frequent device use, especially when traditional instruction, handwriting, reading from printed materials, and face-to-face discussion may better support early development.

Over the weekend, the state teachers union approved a resolution calling for an end to one-device-per-student practices through second grade, with exceptions for students who need technology for translation, disability accommodations, or special education services. The union also raised concerns about artificial intelligence in schools and urged close oversight of chatbot use in educational settings.

Supporters of reducing classroom screen use argue that young students need more direct instruction, social interaction, and hands-on learning. Others caution that technology can still play a useful role when used carefully, particularly for accessibility, language support, and individualized instruction.

Hochul’s remarks suggest that state officials are still in the information-gathering stage and have not settled on a formal proposal. Still, the issue is likely to draw growing attention as schools evaluate how much technology belongs in the classroom, especially for the youngest students.