Governor Ivey Supports Legislation Limiting Screen Time for Early Childhood Education -

January 26, 2026 - 21:00

Governor Kay Ivey has thrown her support behind proposed legislation aimed at restricting electronic screen access for young children in educational and childcare environments. The Healthy Early Development and Screen Time Act would impose clear limits on the use of televisions, computers, tablets, and phones within state-licensed childcare facilities and early childhood education programs.

The governor emphasized the critical importance of personal interaction and hands-on learning during a child's formative years. She stated that the bill aligns with a growing body of research suggesting excessive screen time can be detrimental to early social, emotional, and cognitive development. Proponents of the legislation argue that it will help ensure childcare settings prioritize direct engagement, creative play, and physical activity.

The proposed act outlines specific parameters for screen use, permitting it only under limited educational or therapeutic circumstances as defined by the state's Department of Human Resources. The move reflects a broader national conversation about technology's role in childhood and seeks to establish clearer guidelines for caregivers. The bill is now poised for consideration by the Alabama Legislature, where it will undergo further debate and scrutiny in the coming weeks.