Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Cell phones are becoming a huge distraction to students in the classroom, making it harder for teachers to do their jobs and for students to concentrate on learning.
Senate Republicans recognized this issue and passed Senate Enrolled Act 78 during the 2026 legislative session, which prohibits students from using cell phones, smart watches and gaming devices during the entire school day from bell to bell.
The in-school setting provides students with many valuable opportunities to not only learn and grow their knowledge, but also their social skills. Prohibiting the use of cell phones in classrooms allows students to focus on their lessons and engage more with their peers instead of spending time on their phone. When students aren't staring at their phones, they socialize more at lunch, recess and passing periods. SEA 78 ensures students are making the most of their education by taking out the distractions that prohibit that.
Starting during the 2028-29 school year, students will be prohibited from using any personal communication device during the school day with only a few exceptions, including:
Indiana already has a law that limits students' use of cell phones in the classroom, but SEA 78 strengthens it and sets a clearer standard of a "bell to bell" phone ban. Indiana joins at least 20 other states that have enacted a similar "bell to bell" ban for their schools.
Senate Republicans will continue to work hard for Hoosier students to ensure they are getting the most out of their education.
