AP Wire
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As students start school this year, 17 states and the District of Columbia are imposing new cellphone restrictions. In total, 35 states have passed laws or rules to limit student phone use in schools, with 29 states taking action this year. The movement has gained bipartisan support due to concerns about phones affecting mental health and learning. Some states have enacted full-day bans, while others restrict phone use during class. Students have mixed feelings, with some appreciating fewer distractions. But some parents express concerns about safety and communication, wanting more involvement in policy decisions. Researchers say that it’s too soon yet to determine whether phone restrictions will bring all the benefits that supporters seek.

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Police say a Texas man fatally shot three people in a Target parking lot, including a child and her grandfather. The suspect, 32-year-old Ethan Nieneker, allegedly acted unprovoked and chose his victims randomly. Police say he also fatally shot a target employee who was collecting shopping carts. After the shooting, Nieneker reportedly stole two cars before being arrested in Austin. Authorities say he has a history of mental health issues and previous arrests for domestic violence and assault. He is being held on capital murder charges.