ALBANY — Starting in September, students will be banned from using smartphones in school as part of the New York State budget, which includes $13.5 million for districts to implement the restrictions, Gov. Kathy Hochul said Tuesday.

The proposal, part of a "general agreement" on a $254 billion state budget announced by Hochul on April 28, bans the use of internet-enabled devices such as smartphones, smartwatches and tablets for the entire school day — described as bell-to-bell — including at lunch and during study halls.

It aims to decrease screen time and social media use for students to protect their mental health, while increasing opportunities for learning and socialization.