HOUSTON – A new law passed by the Texas Legislature bans the use of cell phones and other personal communication devices in public schools during the school day. The law, which took effect last month, requires all school districts to adopt policies that restrict or prohibit the use of devices such as cell phones, tablets and smartwatches on school property during instructional time.

Gov. Greg Abbott signed Texas House Bill 1481 , which passed both the Texas House on April 24 and the Senate on May 25. School districts have until Sept. 18 to implement written policies that comply with the new rules.

Devices covered under the ban include cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, pagers and any other device capable of telecommunication or digital communication. Exceptions are made for devices u

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