As the new school year approaches, New York Governor Kathy Hochul is reminding parents to review their child’s school district policy on smartphone and device use. The state law now requires K-12 public schools, charter schools, and BOCES to implement bell-to-bell restrictions on smartphones and other internet-enabled personal devices.
Parents and students can visit ny.gov/phonefree to access information about the distraction-free policies in place across approximately 1,080 school districts, charter schools, and BOCES.
“Our kids succeed when they’re learning and growing, not clicking and scrolling — and that’s why New York schools are ready for bell-to-bell smartphone restrictions,” Governor Hochul said. “I encourage parents to review the distraction-free policy for their child’s school district to help prepare for this important transition, which I know will deliver incredible results for students, teachers and families.”
The Distraction-Free Schools law signed by Governor Hochul takes effect with the 2025-26 academic year. It establishes a statewide standard prohibiting unsanctioned use of smartphones and other personal devices throughout the entire school day, including during lunch and study hall periods. Each school can decide how best to store devices during the day.
The law also provides $13.5 million in funding for schools needing assistance with purchasing storage solutions. Schools must give parents a way to contact their children if necessary during the day. The process of developing local policies requires consultation with teachers, parents, and students, aiming to avoid inequitable discipline practices.
Authorized exceptions include simple cellphones without internet access or internet-enabled devices supplied by schools for instructional purposes. There are further exemptions for students who need devices due to medical conditions or as required by an Individualized Education Program (IEP), as well as allowances for translation needs, family caregiving responsibilities, emergencies, or academic requirements.
Governor Hochul’s initiative follows her listening tour with stakeholders across New York State. Her report emphasizes that phone-free environments help minimize distractions in classrooms without compromising student safety or mental health. The report also highlights that effective implementation relies on clear communication among all parties involved and stresses that efforts should extend beyond classroom hours into extracurricular engagement.
