Indiana Lawmakers Pass Bill Restricting Student Cellphone Use in Schools

Bill Awaits Governor's Approval After Passing Legislature

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Indiana lawmakers have passed a bill that would ban students from using cellphones during the entire school day, with exceptions for students with special needs. The bill is now headed to Governor Mike Braun's desk for approval.

Why it matters

The proposed law aims to limit distractions and promote focused learning in classrooms, though some have raised concerns about accessibility for students who rely on phones for communication or educational purposes.

The details

The current law only prohibits student cellphone use during instructional time, but the new bill would expand the restriction to the full school day. Lawmakers say the bill includes exceptions for students with special needs who may require phone access.

  • The bill has passed the Indiana legislature and is now awaiting Governor Braun's signature.

The players

Indiana Lawmakers

The state legislators who have passed the bill restricting student cellphone use in schools.

Governor Mike Braun

The Governor of Indiana who will decide whether to approve or veto the cellphone restriction bill passed by the state legislature.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Governor Braun will decide whether to sign the bill into law or veto it in the coming days.

The takeaway

The proposed cellphone restriction aims to limit classroom distractions, but some have raised concerns about accessibility for certain students. The bill's fate now rests in the hands of Governor Braun.