NEW STATE LAW: STUDENT DEVICE USE PROHIBITED DURING THE SCHOOL DAY - EFFECTIVE 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR
HOUSE BILL 1481 - 89th Texas Legislature

WHAT PARENTS NEED TO KNOW
WHAT IS HB 1481? - The Texas Legislature passed House Bill 1481, which requires school districts to adopt policies prohibiting students from using personal communication devices during the school day. This legislation aims to reduce distractions, safeguard student privacy, and enhance the overall learning environment.

DEVICES IMPACTED

• Cell Phone
• Smartwatch
• Tablet
• Pager
• Headphones / Earbuds
• Other Personal Communication Devices

EXCEPTIONS ALLOWED - The bill does provide exceptions for students with documented medical needs or IEP / 504 accommodations requiring devices. If you would like to read HB 1481, visit: https://capitol.texas.gov/tlodocs/89R/billtext/pdf/HB01481I.pdf

DISTRICT POLICY COMING SOON - The District understands the importance of this change and its potential impact on students and families. District and campus leaders are working thoughtfully to create a policy that meets the requirements of HB 1481 while supporting student learning, minimizing distractions, and ensuring safety.

Parents, we encourage you to begin discussing this new law and its implications with your student(s) to help them prepare for the upcoming changes. We will continue to communicate updates on our progress as we work to create a districtwide plan and policy.

As always, we appreciate your support and involvement as we move forward together in implementing this new state requirement.