RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — Some state lawmakers want to see cell phones banned during class across North Carolina. A bill filed in the state Senate Wednesday would require phones and other devices to be off during instruction.

The bill would ban devices such as cell phones, laptops, and tablets during instructional time and require districts to put into place policies that would, at a minimum, prohibit students from using, displaying or having a “wireless communication device” turned on during class.

CBS 17 spoke with several people who said they see the benefits.

“[The bill is] just so the kids will focus,” Bill McDonald said. “I know if I’ve got my cell phone in my hand. I’m focused on that.”

Said Susan McCarthy, “If you’re teaching, it’s a real pain in the neck [when] kids are not paying attention. If they don’t pay attention, they don’t learn.”

Nathan Barazza noted phones can also raise privacy concerns.

“You ever see on social media people are recording each other in school all the time?” he said. “That’s pretty messed up, recording somebody without their permission.“

The bill would allow for exceptions like if a teacher allows devices for educational purposes or in the event of an emergency.  

“Kids really need their phone if it’s an emergency to get a hold of their parents or their caretakers,” McCarthy said.

Some think students should also have access during times when they’re not in class.

“I don’t see an issue with communicating with your parents if it’s during free time, so long as it’s respecting other people‘s privacy,” Barazza said.

The bill does not specify requirements for free time, nor does it specify where devices should be kept during class. It does make exceptions for students with certain education plans or medical needs.

This is only the first step in the process for this bill. Wake County Public School leaders are already planning on putting an updated cell phone policy in place, but they’re still working on details.