LANSING — The Michigan House and Senate both approved new bills Tuesday, hoping to influence student cell phone use and how the state interacts with foreign entities.
The House advanced a bill package they say would limit foreign influence in the state, while the Senate passed a bill requiring cell phone use policies in Michigan schools.
“These policies must aim to limit cell phone use during school hours and reduce distractions in classroom settings, and the policies must be enforced,” said Sen. Dayna Polehanki, (D) District 5, Livonia.
The proposal — SB 234 — also includes exceptions for emergencies, medical use and devices included in individualized education plans.
The bill drew some opposition from senators who say that it would be ineffective at preventing phone use during school.
“I don’t believe this is the answer,” said Sen. Lana Theis, (R) District 22, Brighton. “I believe this is too permissive, and I don’t see anything in law that would currently prohibit our schools from doing what’s already being requested in this bill.”
Some lawmakers say the bill should set higher minimum standards for districts, in part so school officials don’t have to take the heat for restrictive policies that may anger some parents.
The bill would require those policies to be implemented by the start of the next school year in September.
Also on Tuesday, the state House approved a set of bills aimed at limiting so-called ‘foreign influence’ in Michigan.
One bill in the package — HB 4233 — prevents the purchasing of Michigan farmland by foreign governments, which supporters say presents a security risk for the state.
“It is our duty to ensure that our enemies are barred from state contracts and economic incentives, that our farmland is safeguarded from foreign governments and their proxies, that our schools and universities remain bastions of free thought, not tools of foreign propaganda,” said Rep. Mike Hoadley, (R) District 99, Au Gres.
Some of those opposing the bills say they unfairly target minority groups and could lead to increased discrimination.
“National security and safety are not ensured by vilifying people who come from certain countries and who look different from you and me,” said Rep. Mai Xiong, (D) District 13, Warren. “We need laws that recognize the strength of our differences, for the health of our economy, for the rights of immigrants families, and for the values we hold as Michiganders.”
Both sets of proposals would need to be approved by the opposing chamber before going to the governor’s desk for a signature.