INDIANAPOLIS, IND. (WOWO) Indiana students will soon face new restrictions on personal electronic devices during the school day as a statewide “Bell-to-Bell” ban takes effect July 1. The law expands existing classroom cellphone restrictions and requires schools to limit student access to personal devices throughout the entire school day.
The Lead Off
- Indiana’s new Bell-to-Bell cellphone ban takes effect July 1 for public schools and charter schools.
- The law prohibits student use of personal devices throughout the school day, including lunch and passing periods.
- School districts are updating policies and preparing enforcement plans ahead of the upcoming academic year.
New law expands existing restrictions
Gov. Mike Braun signed Senate Enrolled Act 78 into law last month, strengthening Indiana’s existing restrictions on student cellphone use.
The legislation requires public school corporations and charter schools to adopt policies limiting the use of personal communication devices during the entire school day. The restrictions apply not only to cell phones, but also to smart watches and other personal electronic devices.
Students are expected to experience the impact of the new requirements when schools begin classes for the 2026-27 academic year.
Law targets distractions and student focus
Supporters of the legislation say the expanded restrictions are intended to reduce distractions and improve student engagement in the classroom…