Government Sets 2-Hour Limit on Daily Smartphone Screen Time
TOKYO (The Uttam Hindu): The Toyoake municipality in Japan's Aichi Prefecture has issued an ordinance asking all residents to limit smartphone use. Local media reported on Tuesday that the Toyoake municipal assembly passed an ordinance limiting daily leisure-related screen time for all residents to two hours.
The ordinance aims to curb excessive use of smartphones, personal computers, and tablet devices. It was passed by a majority in the assembly's plenary session. Effective October 1, this local law serves as guidance. It does not apply to students, office workers, or domestic workers. There are also no penalties for those who violate the ordinance. The Japan Times quoted Toyoke Mayor Masafumi Kouki as saying that the ordinance is only part of the city's health measures for residents. It aims to make residents aware that excessive smartphone use is also disturbing their sleep.
“We are not rejecting smartphones,” he told reporters. The ordinance is also designed to increase interaction within families and calls for refraining from using smartphones and other gadgets after 9 p.m. for elementary school students and younger children, and after 10 p.m. for junior high school students and other children under 18. According to Japanese media reports, “Some residents have argued that the municipality should not interfere in family matters, while others have taken the move as an opportunity to discuss with family members. The municipal assembly also passed a supplementary resolution calling on the city to review the ordinance, if necessary, after examining its effects and residents’ opinions on a regular basis.”
According to Nippon Television Network (NTV), during previous discussions, council members who supported the ordinance also repeatedly said the explanation given to residents was inadequate. “The city council also passed a supplementary resolution that includes measures to respect the diversity of residents’ lifestyles and home environments and to provide clear and concise information to avoid misunderstandings,” NTV reported.