Ammon News - A Japanese city is considering a proposed ordinance that would limit residents to two hours of screen time outside of work or school.

Masafumi Koki, mayor of Toyoake in Aichi Prefecture, announced the city's assembly will soon vote on a draft ordinance that would limit residents to two hours of time on smartphones, tablets and computers outside of work and school obligations.

The non-binding ordinance would also urge elementary school-age children to cut off screen time at 9 p.m., with a 10 p.m. suggestion for middle school and older children.

Koki said the ordinance would not impose any monetary or criminal penalties for violations.

"Limiting daily smartphone use at two hours is just a guide," Masafumi Koki said at a plenary meeting of the city assembly Friday. "The bill is aimed at promoting measures to prevent residents from suffering adverse effects on their bodies and daily lives from excessive smartphone use."

A survey published in March by Japan's Children and Families Agency found young people in the country spend an average five hours on their phones, tablets and computers per day during the week. UPI