New Texas Cell Phone Law
House Bill 1481
Away for the Day!
House Bill 1481 prohibits students from using personal communication devices during the school day.
This law applies to:
- Cell Phones
- Smartwatches
- Earbuds & Headphones
- Tablets or any device that can text, call, record, or access the internet.
What does this mean?
Students may bring phones and personal devices to school. However, from the moment students enter the building in the morning until the final dismissal bell, cell phones must be powered off or silenced, stored in a backpack or bag, and not used during class, passing periods, lunch, or restroom breaks.
Consequences
The Texas law requires school districts to administer disciplinary consequences if students violate the personal communication device policy in school. Each infraction of this policy will result in the following escalating consequences:
- First Offense - Device confiscated, student can pick up at the end of the day
- Second Offense - Device confiscated, parent must pick up
- Third Offense - Device confiscated, parent must pick up, student will be assigned discipline (in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, or alternative school).
Refusal to Comply:
Any student who refuses to relinquish a telecommunication device upon request by an administrator will be subject to further disciplinary measures in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. This may include in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, or other disciplinary action as appropriate.
Emergency Situations:
Administration may approve the use of devices when necessary for the health or safety of students or others.
Parents, please talk with your child about expectations before school starts. For emergencies, contact the campus office.
BISD Away For the Day Flyer
For more information, see Personal Devices.
If you have any questions, please contact your child’s campus or use the Just Ask feature on our website.
