Texas lawmakers have passed House Bill 1481, a new law that prohibits students from using personal electronic devices on district property during school hours. Governor Greg Abbott signed the bill into law after its approval in the most recent legislative session.
The legislation is intended to help students stay focused, reduce classroom distractions, and address concerns about cyberbullying. According to the new rules, devices such as cell phones, tablets, gaming devices, smart watches, Bluetooth earbuds, fitness trackers with messaging functions, personal laptops or Chromebooks, two-way radios, and pagers must be turned off and kept out of sight from the start to the end of the school day.
There are exceptions in place for students who require access to devices due to medical needs or special education accommodations. If a student violates the policy by using a prohibited device during school hours, the item will be confiscated.
Next steps include a scheduled vote by the Board of Trustees on Thursday, August 21, 2025. The board will determine disciplinary measures for violations of this new policy.
“The law aims to boost student focus, reduce distractions, and lower cyberbullying risks.”
