Indiana Lawmakers Propose Statewide School Cellphone Ban

Bill would require schools to prohibit student use of phones and wireless devices during the entire school day

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Indiana Senate Bill 78, if passed, would mandate that all schools in the state adopt policies prohibiting student use of cellphones and other wireless communication devices for the entire school day. The bill has drawn support from some educators who cite benefits to student engagement and academic performance, but has also faced pushback from parents concerned about safety and communication during emergencies.

Why it matters

The proposed cellphone ban is part of a broader debate around the role of technology in schools and how to balance student learning, safety, and parental access. Supporters argue it will reduce distractions, while critics worry it could hinder emergency communication and parental oversight.

The details

The bill, authored by Sen. Jeff Raatz, R-Richmond, would expand on Indiana's current policy which only restricts cell phone use during instructional time. The latest version allows schools to use safety grant funds to purchase storage pouches for phones, exempts audio-only note-taking devices, and permits phone use for medical or language translation needs. However, critics argue the ban could prevent students from accessing phones in emergencies.

  • The bill passed the Indiana Senate on January 20 with a 28-19 vote.
  • The bill passed the House Education Committee with a unanimous vote on January 28.
  • The bill is set for amendment and vote at the House's Ways and Means Committee on Thursday, February 23.

The players

Sen. Jeff Raatz

The Republican state senator who authored Indiana Senate Bill 78.

Duke Lines

The principal of Whiteland Community High School, who testified in support of the bill.

David Clendening

The superintendent of Franklin Community Schools, who said some students were not in favor of the bill.

Melissa Kelly

A parent of a Center Grove student who expressed concerns about the bill's impact on emergency communication.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Reducing distractions, protecting instructional time and helping students remain focused are priorities we work toward every day at Whiteland.”

— Duke Lines, Principal, Whiteland Community High School (dailyjournal.net)

“Although they were actually pretty mature about it when we talked, and they understood the need to stay engaged.”

— David Clendening, Superintendent, Franklin Community Schools (dailyjournal.net)

“The world is a dangerous place and parents need to know where their kids are and contact their kids 24/7 as long as it does not interfere with instructional time.”

— Anonymous parent (dailyjournal.net)

What’s next

The bill is set for amendment and vote at the House's Ways and Means Committee on Thursday, February 23, before potentially moving to a full House vote.

The takeaway

The proposed cellphone ban in Indiana schools highlights the ongoing tension between maximizing student learning and ensuring student safety and parental access. As the bill moves forward, policymakers and stakeholders will need to carefully balance these competing priorities.