A major shift is coming to Texas classrooms this fall. Beginning September 1, 2025, public school students across the state will be prohibited from using personal communication devices while on school property during the school day. This change stems from House Bill 1481, passed by the 89th Texas Legislature and signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on June 20, 2025. Under this new mandate, all public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools must establish written policies that ban student use of devices such as cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, pagers, and radios throughout the school day. The law defines the school day as the period from the first bell to the last, including non-instructional times like lunch and passing periods.

Each district is required to not only adopt a cell phone ban policy within 90 days of the lawโ€™s effective date but also to outline how the rule will be enforced. This includes procedures for disciplinary action, the confiscation of prohibited devices, and a provision that allows districts to dispose of confiscated items after 90 days, provided parents are notified in advance.

 

 

While the law is strict, it does make exceptions. Students are permitted to use personal devices when required by an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or Section 504 accommodations. Device use is also allowed for documented medical needs with a physicianโ€™s directive and in situations where legal or safety protocols require it. Notably, the ban does not apply to devices issued by the school, such as Chromebooks or tablets.

The legislation is part of a broader initiative to address growing concerns over student distraction, the impact of social media on mental health, and the general digital overload affecting young people. Supporters of the cell phone ban bill reference data from the Pew Research Center showing that 68 percent of adults support banning phones in the classroom. Lawmakers also looked to other states, including Florida and Indiana, which have enacted similar policies. Implementation strategies vary by district. Below are summaries of the districts in Austin County according to information supplied by them at the time of publishing. Any questions should be addressed to the individual district.

Public response to the cell phone ban has been mixed. Advocates believe the ban will help students concentrate, reduce classroom disruptions, and foster healthier learning environments. Critics, on the other hand, worry about student safety in the event of emergencies and question the broad wording of the law, which they fear could lead to overreach. Despite the debate, schools must comply with the new regulations by late November 2025. Districts are currently working to finalize their individual policies, making way for a new digital landscape in Texas education.

 

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Bellville ISD โ€“ Personal Communication Devices Policy (2025โ€“2026 School Year)

Grade Levels Affected:

  • Pre-K through 12th Grade

Law Reference:

  • In compliance with HB 1481, a new Texas law restricting device use

Prohibited Devices:

  • All electronic communication devices, including:
    • Cell phones
    • Laptops
    • Tablets
    • Smart watches

Rules:

  • Devices must be turned off during the school day
  • Use of device will result in:
    • Confiscation
    • Disciplinary consequences

Applies To All Areas Including:

  • Classrooms
  • Libraries
  • Cafeterias
  • Hallways
  • Restrooms
  • Locker rooms
  • Common spaces

More Info:

  • Detailed guidance will be provided in the Student Handbook and at Back-to-School events
  • Website: www.bellvilleisd.org

Brazos ISD โ€“ โ€œAway for the Dayโ€ Policy (2025โ€“2026 School Year)

Policy Title:

  • โ€œAway for the Dayโ€
  • In compliance with House Bill 1481

Effective:

  • 2025โ€“2026 School Year

Prohibited Devices Include:

  • Smartphones
  • Earbuds/earphones
  • Personal laptops/tablets
  • Gaming devices
  • Any other personal communication device

Device Rules:

  • Devices may be brought to school but must be:
    • Powered off
    • Stored in backpacks from arrival to dismissal

District-Issued Devices:

  • Chromebooks and similar are permitted for learning only

Exceptions:

  • Allowed for students with:
    • Medical needs
    • IEP/504 accommodations
  • Parents should contact:
    • School nurse
    • Special Education Department

Policy Goal:

  • To create a focused, distraction-free learning environment for all students

Sealy ISD โ€“ Personal Device Procedures (2025โ€“2026 School Year)

Law & Purpose:

  • In compliance with Texas State Statute HB 1481
  • Law prohibits use of personal wireless communication devices during the school day
  • Enacted by the Governor and State Legislature โ€” not a local decision

School Day Definition:

  • Applies from the time doors open until dismissal

Campus Schedules:

  • SHS: 7:25 AM โ€“ 3:15 PM
  • SJH: 7:25 AM โ€“ 3:20 PM
  • MBS: 7:45 AM โ€“ 3:45 PM
  • SES: 7:45 AM โ€“ 3:45 PM

Devices Must Be:

  • Powered off
  • Stored in backpacks from arrival through dismissal

Prohibited Devices Include:

  • Cell phones
  • Text messaging devices
  • Laptop computers
  • Smart watches
  • iPads/Tablets
  • Gaming devices

Additional Notes:

  • District is updating local policy with school board approval
  • Working on solutions to maintain access to instructional technology

 

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