Michigan Lawmakers Propose 32% Tax on Wireless Devices for Minors to Curb Technology Use
LANSING, Mich. — In a move aimed at restricting technology use among minors, some Republican lawmakers in the Michigan House have introduced a bill that would impose a 32% tax on wireless devices purchased for individuals under the age of 18. The legislation, House Bill 5496, spearheaded by State Representative Mark Tisdel (R-Rochester), targets widely used technology such as cell phones, tablets, computers, and gaming systems. The proposal follows recent state efforts to limit cell phone use in classrooms and reflects growing concern over the impact of technology and social media on youth mental health.
A Price Barrier to Reduce Distraction and Harm
Rep. Tisdel explained that the new tax is designed to act as a deterrent by increasing the cost of obtaining such devices for minors. “It’s one more reason for them to say no, I’m not buying you a smartphone for an extra $400 dollars that you can use at school anyway,” Tisdel said. The timing coincides with anticipation that a recent bill restricting cell phone use during instructional time will be signed into law soon.
“Get the distraction out of instruction time, we’re there to learn,” Tisdel emphasized, underscoring the importance of minimizing classroom interruptions.
He likened the proposed wireless device tax to Michigan’s current 32% excise tax on non-combustible tobacco products, asserting that increasing prices is an effective way to communicate societal concerns about harmful products. “Smartphones and social media as a causation of poor mental wellness, depression, self-harm, suicide ideation attempts and completions,” Tisdel noted, highlighting the growing evidence linking technology use with mental health challenges in young people.
Mixed Reactions from the Community
Community members have expressed varied responses to the proposal. Gabrielle Strong, a 19-year-old resident of Lansing, shared her conflicted viewpoint. “I have mixed feelings on it, cause I can see why they kind of would want to, just by social media being so popular [among] teens, and how influential it is,” Strong said. However, she raised concerns about access for families with limited financial means. “But then at the same time, for people who don’t have the money… and they just want to call their kid, make sure they’re fine, [and] know where they’re at, I don’t know.”
Strong also stressed that legislation alone won’t solve the problems associated with youth technology use. “I think they’re taking a step in the right direction. But, there is more that needs to be done, like parents being educated and monitoring… and limiting time [on electronics]. And just being smart about doing things,” she added.
Next Steps and Legislative Review
The wireless device tax bill is currently under consideration by the Michigan House Finance Committee. Lawmakers will weigh the potential benefits of reducing technology-related distractions and mental health risks against concerns about affordability and accessibility for families.
This proposed tax marks the latest chapter in ongoing debates over the role of technology in the lives of children and teenagers, as Michigan seeks to balance educational priorities, public health, and economic impacts.
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