Key Facts
• September 16: Toyoake City committee approved the smartphone usage ordinance.
• Ordinance limits smartphone use to 2 hours per day.
• Mayor Koichi Kofuji proposed the ordinance to promote proper smartphone use.
• Councilor Shuichi Tsukioka supported the proposal, citing potential risks of smartphone misuse.
• Councilor Mariko Fujie opposed, questioning the lack of scientific evidence.
• September 22: Final vote in the city council expected to pass with majority support.
• Ordinance has drawn national attention for its potential impact on smartphone habits.
Summary
Toyoake City in Aichi Prefecture is set to pass an ordinance limiting smartphone use to two hours per day. The proposal, introduced by Mayor Koichi Kofuji, was approved by the city’s Construction and Education Committee on September 16 and is expected to pass in the city council’s final vote on September 22. The ordinance has sparked debate, with supporters like Councilor Shuichi Tsukioka praising its intent to address smartphone overuse, while critics like Councilor Mariko Fujie argue it lacks scientific backing. If passed, the ordinance will mark a significant step in addressing concerns over smartphone dependency, particularly among youth, and has garnered nationwide attention.
