New York is rapidly advancing its statewide plan to limit smartphone use in schools, with nearly 300 districts submitting official policies ahead of the state’s August 1 deadline.

The new requirement mandates “bell-to-bell” restrictions on smartphones and personal internet-enabled devices in K–12 public schools, charter schools, and BOCES. These rules, set to take effect in the 2025–26 school year, aim to create distraction-free learning environments from the first to the final bell.

Districts have been tasked with developing local policies, choosing how to store devices during the day, and including input from teachers, parents, and students. The state is offering $13.5 million in funding to help schools implement storage solutions if needed.

The initiative’s rollout has seen strong participation from across the state. School leaders in Albany, Schenectady, Utica, and East Greenbush are among those finalizing their plans. State officials emphasized that flexibility and equity are central to the policy—students will retain access to school-provided devices for instruction and receive exemptions when medically or academically necessary.

Lawmakers have voiced support for the program’s momentum. “The bell-to-bell cell phone restriction and the plans submitted demonstrate a real commitment to creating learning environments that put students’ academic focus and mental well-being first,” said State Senator Shelley B. Mayer.

Senator John Liu added, “This milestone… shows that New York schools are moving swiftly to implement distraction-free policies.”

Under the new guidance, all schools must also provide parents with a way to reach students during the school day and ensure discipline for violations is applied fairly. The state continues to offer districts tools and FAQs through a dedicated online portal.