Ordinance Proposed to Promote Appropriate Smartphone Use
Non-binding Recommendations... No Penalties for Violations
Toyoake City in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, is pushing for the enactment of an ordinance aimed at curbing excessive smartphone use among residents.
According to local media outlets such as Kyodo News on the 21st, Toyoake City announced that it will submit an ordinance bill to the regular city council meeting in September, recommending that the use of electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and PCs be limited to less than two hours a day outside of work and study hours. If the ordinance passes, it will take effect from October 1. A city official explained, "We hope this will serve as an opportunity for residents to reflect on their smartphone usage habits."
The ordinance, titled "Toyoake City Ordinance on Promoting Appropriate Use of Smartphones and Other Devices," is notable for being the first in the country to specify a 'usage time standard' for mobile phones targeting all residents. In particular, for children and adolescents under the age of 18, the ordinance stipulates that elementary school students should refrain from using devices after 9 p.m., and middle school students and older after 10 p.m., in order to ensure sufficient sleep. However, as these are non-binding recommendations, there are no penalties for non-compliance.
While the ordinance acknowledges that smartphones and electronic devices have become daily necessities, it points out that excessive use, such as social networking services (SNS) and video streaming, can lead to health issues and family conflicts. The city plans to promote a culture of appropriate use through collaboration among schools, families, and the local community.
Toyoake City is located in southeastern Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, and has a population of approximately 68,000.
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