What New Jersey School Districts Need to Know re: Bell-to-Bell Cellphone Ban

On January 8, 2026, Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation (P.L. 2025, c195), which requires the Commissioner of Education to develop statewide guidelines concerning student use of internet-enabled devices, and also requires each board of education to adopt a bell-to-bell policy prohibiting student use of internet-enabled devices during the school day. These measures are intended to promote student well-being, increase academic engagement, and enhance digital safety.

To comply with P.L. 2025, c. 195, school districts must adopt and implement a bell-to-bell policy aligned with the guidelines beginning with the 2026-2027. At a minimum, schools must prohibit the use of personal internet-enabled devices during the entirety of the school day for students in kindergarten through grade 12; however, districts may adopt more restrictive policies if desired. Personal internet-enabled devices include smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, smart glasses etc.

The New Jersey Department of Education has issued guidance to support districts in developing these policies, available here. The guidance addresses effective device storage options, age and grade appropriate policy considerations, permissible exceptions to the prohibitions, and procedures for emergency communications.

For additional assistance with drafting and implementing compliant policies, school districts are encouraged to consult with their board attorney.

The full text of the legislation can be found here.