Indiana enacts statewide “bell-to-bell” cellphone ban in schools starting July 1

INDIANAPOLIS, IND. (WOWO) Indiana schools will be required to enforce stricter student cellphone restrictions beginning July 1 under a new statewide law aimed at limiting classroom distractions and improving student focus.

The policy, signed earlier this year and ceremonially highlighted Wednesday, expands existing restrictions and requires schools to prohibit student use of personal electronic devices throughout the entire school day.

Statewide “bell-to-bell” restriction takes effect

The new law, Senate Enrolled Act 78, was ceremonially signed Wednesday by Gov. Mike Braun during an event in Whiteland.

The measure requires Indiana schools to enforce a “bell-to-bell” ban on student use of personal wireless communication devices, including cellphones, smart watches, gaming devices, and similar electronics.

Limited exceptions are included for emergencies, medical needs, and students with individualized education plans or 504 accommodations.

Goal of reducing classroom distractions

Braun said the policy is designed to improve classroom environments by reducing disruptions during instructional time.

“This law strengthens Indiana schools cellphone policies so students can focus,” Braun said.

He added that the goal is to support student learning by limiting distractions related to constant device use.

“Teachers can teach, and classrooms can function as they should,” Braun said.

Schools tasked with enforcement guidance

The law directs the Indiana Department of Education to develop model policy guidance for school districts, though those guidelines have not yet been released.

Lawmakers said the intent is to shift enforcement responsibility primarily to school administrators rather than individual teachers.

Sen. Jeff Raatz said the goal is to limit device access during the school day.

“In the perfect world, no cellphone will get past the front door of the school,” Raatz said.

Policy expands on prior restrictions

Indiana previously enacted statewide cellphone rules, but lawmakers said inconsistencies in enforcement led to calls for a stronger policy.

Some schools already use storage systems, such as locking pouches, to restrict device access during the day, though the new law does not require districts to adopt specific tools.

School officials and supporters cited improvements in student engagement and behavior in districts with stricter device policies.

Broader debate over student technology use

Lawmakers also discussed broader concerns about student technology use, including school-issued devices such as laptops and tablets.

Rep. Jake Teshka said policymakers are increasingly evaluating how digital devices impact learning and attention.

“There’s a growing chorus of folks across the country… that are looking at device usage in a more holistic sense,” Teshka said.

Next steps

The Indiana Department of Education is expected to release implementation guidance ahead of the July 1 effective date as school districts prepare to update their policies for the upcoming academic year.

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