Gov. JB Pritzker on Wednesday proposed a statewide ban on cell phones in school classrooms, as part of an effort to improve students' performance and mental health by removing electronic devices that many have said have become major distractions.

The proposed school cell phone ban would make exceptions for emergencies, medical purposes, special education plans, or ESL learners.

Citing cyberbullying and learning distractions, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker said he will endorse legislation to ban cell phone use in the classroom statewide.