In a significant move to reshape classroom engagement and reduce digital distractions, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has officially signed House Bill 1481 into law, banning the use of cell phones by K-12 students during school hours. The bill, introduced by Rep. Caroline Fairly of Amarillo, is set to take effect at the beginning of the 2025–26 academic year.
House Bill 1481 prohibits students from using cell phones and other digital communication devices—including smartwatches, flip phones, and pagers—throughout the instructional day. With growing concerns over screen time and its impact on learning and student behavior, the new law aligns Texas with at least eight other states that have recently enacted similar legislation.
While the law imposes a clear restriction during classroom hours, it allows school districts flexibility in enforcing it. Schools may choose whether to allow device usage during extracurricular activities and can implement local policies for secure storage or restrict devices from being brought onto campus altogether.
The legislation includes key exemptions. Students in special education settings may continue to use communication devices when necessary for instructional purposes or if medically required, as determined by a physician.
“This bill reflects a transformative step toward improving academic focus and classroom dynamics in Texas schools,” said Rep. Caroline Fairly. “By minimizing digital distractions, we aim to create a more productive and safe learning environment for every student.”
The enactment of HB 1481 is part of a broader wave of education reforms passed during this year’s legislative session, signaling a renewed commitment to student development across the state.
Orange County School Districts are currently investigating how they will implement the policy in each district.