Signed by Governor Greg Abbott

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits personal communication devices from being used on school premises in Texas.

Highlights:

• Prohibits personal communication devices from being used on school premises in Texas (Sec. 1-2).

• Defines “personal communication devices” to encompass cellphones, tablets, smartwatches, or any other electronic device capable of telecommunication or digital communication (Sec. 1-2).

• Exempts devices that are provided by a school to a student from these provisions (Sec. 1-2).

• Requires schools to establish disciplinary measures” for violations, and authorizes them to confiscate students’ devices and allows for the disposal of a confiscated device after 90 days (Sec. 1-2).

• Requires the Texas Education Agency to direct and develop, and publish language for the policy” of the cell phone ban (Sec. 1-2).

• Specifies that the provisions of this bill shall take effect beginning September 1, 2025 (Sec. 3).

Full Bill Text