New Texas Law Targets School Cell Phone Use: What Benbrook Parents Should Know.

Starting in the 2025-26 school year, Texas students in kindergarten through 12th grade will face a significant change: the prohibition on cell phone use during school hours.

The new law, signed by Governor Greg Abbott, gives school districts across the state, including those in Benbrook, the responsibility to put clear boundaries on student phone use during the day.

The goal is simple: help students stay focused. House Bill 1481, led by Representative Caroline Fairly of Amarillo, bans all devices capable of digital communication, think smartphones, smartwatches, flip phones, and even pagers, during school hours.

Districts do get some wiggle room. They can choose whether to allow students to use phones during extracurricular activities or decide how phones are stored—either at home or in designated areas on campus.

There are a few exceptions. Students in specific special education programs can still use devices if they are part of their instruction or are medically necessary.

Texas now joins a growing list of states making similar moves. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or student, expect some adjustments ahead. But for many, it’s a step toward fewer distractions and more learning.