Link: https://5il.co/3n3lq
HB 1481 Cellular Device usage ban from schools
New law signed by Governor Abbott on 6/2025
HB 1481 states that students are not allowed to use any personal cellular device at any time during the school day. Students are allowed to use school issued devices during the school day. Cellular devices include…..
Telephone;
Cell phone such as a smartphone or flip phone;
Ear buds;
Tablet;
Smartwatch;
Radio device;
Paging device;
Or any electronic device capable of telecommunications or digital communication
At Oliver elementary, students will turn in their device(s) to the office when they arrive at school.
At Middle School and High School, students may bring their device(s) and store in their backpack. Cell phones must be turned off or in silent mode at all times. Students are not allowed to use the cellular device at any point during the school day; this includes classroom, hallways, gym, locker rooms, lunch, outside at any point during the school day.
Consequences are applicable at all campuses.
Consequences of using cellular device during the school day on school property…
1st offense – The device will be confiscated by school administrator. Parent, or legal guardian, will have to come to school office between 3:35-4:00pm to pick up device. The device will not be given back to the student.
2nd offense – The device will be confiscated by school administrator for a period of 3 school days. Parent, or legal guardian, will be able to pick up device between 3:35-4:00pm on the last day of stated release time.
3rd offense – The device will be confiscated by school administrator for a period of 5 school days. Parent, or legal guardian, will be able to pick up device between 3:35-4:00pm on the last day of stated release time.
4th offense and on – The device will be confiscated by school administrator for a period of 10 school days. Parent will be able to pick up device at 3:35-4:00pm on the last day of stated release time.
Confiscated cellular devices will not be released for any reason until the stated time of release.
Students will be able to take their cellular devices with them on school extra-curricular events.
The district may authorize the use of personal communication device for the following reasons:
· To implement an individualized education program (IEP) or for a plan created under Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973(29 U.S. Section 794) or a similar program or plan;
· With documented need on a directive from a qualified physician; or
To comply with a health or safety requirement imposed by law or as part of the district’s safety protocols.