On Sunday, Governor Abbott signed House Bill 1481 (HB1481), a new law approved by the 89th Texas Legislature which will go into effect for the upcoming 2025-26 school year.

HB 1481 prohibits the use of personal wireless communications devices by students during the instructional school day or while on school grounds. This includes devices such as cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, radio devices, paging devices, or any other electronic device capable of telecommunication or digital communication. The law applies to all Texas public school districts, including SBISD, as well as open enrollment charter schools.

Importantly, the law does provide exceptions for students with documented medical or safety needs or special education accommodations.

We are awaiting guidance forthcoming from the Texas Education Agency, and we will keep you fully informed as additional information becomes available and related district guidelines and plans are finalized.

In the meantime, please discuss this new law with your students and help them to be prepared for the related changes they can expect for the year ahead.

We thank you in advance for your support as we work to implement this new state law.