It’s Official; No Cell Phone Use in Public Schools
June 23, 2025 – A new Texas law will soon prohibit K-12 students from using cell phones during school hours, following Gov. Greg Abbott’s signing of the bill aimed at reducing distractions and improving student focus. The legislation, widely supported by educators and policymakers, is part of a broader push to address concerns over declining academic performance and rising behavioral issues tied to excessive screen time.
It will be up to school districts to decide penalties.
Under the new law, Texas school districts must implement policies that restrict student cell phone use throughout the school day, including in classrooms, hallways, and other campus areas. While the bill allows some exceptions for emergencies and specific instructional uses approved by teachers, the overall goal is to minimize non-educational phone activity on campus.
Supporters argue that limiting phone use will help students stay engaged, reduce incidents of cyberbullying, and create a more disciplined learning environment. They also point to studies that link reduced phone access to improved academic outcomes and better mental health among students.
Opponents of the measure have raised concerns about parental communication and student safety, but the law includes provisions to ensure that parents can still reach their children in emergencies through school channels.
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The law is set to take effect at the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year.
