AMARILLO, Texas – A major change is coming to classrooms across Texas as House Bill 1481, which bans the use of personal communication devices by students, awaits Governor Greg Abbott’s signature. If approved, the law will go into effect in time for the upcoming school year, making Texas campuses cellphone-free zones for students.
What Devices Are Banned?
This Article Includes
The bill prohibits students from using:
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Cellphones (smartphones and flip phones)
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Tablets
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Smartwatches
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Any other communication-capable electronic devices
Exceptions will be made for students with documented medical needs, provided they have a physician’s note.
Supporters Say It’s a Win for Learning
Representative Caroline Fairly, who spearheaded the bill, emphasized the benefits of removing digital distractions from schools.
“By creating a phone-free environment, we’re giving teachers the tools to teach without disruption and students the space to learn, think critically, and engage with one another face-to-face,” she stated.
Dalhart ISD Superintendent Jeff Byrd supports the bill, saying it will give students more time to focus on academics and help combat cyberbullying, which is often a hidden problem in schools.
“Bullying is no longer face-to-face. It’s mostly through cyberbullying. I really hope we see a drastic decrease,” Byrd said.
How It Will Be Enforced
The law leaves it up to individual school districts to determine how they’ll handle violations. That means disciplinary actions may vary from one district to another, allowing schools flexibility in tailoring policies that work for their communities.
What This Means for Students and Teachers
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More classroom focus: Teachers may find it easier to maintain attention and minimize distractions.
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Fewer digital disruptions: Schools could see a reduction in phone-related incidents during instructional time.
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Less screen time: Encourages face-to-face interaction and more engaged learning.
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Potential backlash: Some parents and students may raise concerns about emergency communication or after-school coordination.
If signed into law, Texas HB 1481 will be one of the strictest statewide school cellphone bans in the country, signaling a growing push toward reclaiming learning spaces from digital distractions.
