HB 1481 IS IN EFFECT

Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed several laws into effect recently and House Bill 1481 was one of those.

HB 1841 requires schools to adopt policies prohibiting students from using personal communication devices, such as cell phones and smart watches, during the school day. Polices must either prohibit personal devices on school property or provide a designated storage area for devices during the school day.

The law was signed before schools began filing up with students again for the 2025-2026 school year.

It was set to go into effect for all Texas schools on Aug. 4.

The governor said that his mission is to make the Texas public education system number one in both safety and education in the country.

During his remarks, Governor Abbott emphasized that House Bill 1481 will ensure Texas students are able to succeed in school, free from distractions.

The law outlines that all cell phones, smart watches, tablets, headphones and earbuds are prohibited during the entire school day- including lunch and passing periods.

Devices must be stored away in backpacks, lockers or locked pouches and there are no exceptions for instructional use.

Students may qualify for exceptions under the law if they have an approved Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 plan that requires device use. If your student has a documented medical need based on a directive from a qualified physician and you need to request an exception, please contact your campus principal.

The new state law requires disciplinary measures for students who violate the policy. Devices brought to school may be confiscated and returned only to a parent or guardian.

The bill allows each school district to determine what policy is best for its students and teachers.