Conroe Independent School District will broaden its existing cellphone policy this August to comply with House Bill 1481, recently signed into law by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. The legislation mandates that public schools restrict the use of personal communication devices, including smartwatches and cellphones, during school hours.
Conroe ISD will expand its current electronic device restrictions, effective August 13, in alignment with new state requirements set forth by House Bill 1481, signed by Governor Greg Abbott on June 20. The law mandates that all Texas school districts ban the use of personal communication devices—such as cellphones, smartwatches, headphones, and earbuds—by students during the school day.
The legislation, championed by Sen. Brandon Creighton, R-Conroe, includes options for implementation, such as storing devices in lockers or school-issued pouches. Districts are also required to outline disciplinary procedures for violations in their policies.
While the law contains exceptions for students with documented medical needs or special education requirements, it does not apply to school-issued devices intended for educational use.
Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Morath has been vocal in support of a statewide ban on student cellphone use in classrooms. He cited concerns over distractions and mental health during a state Senate hearing in September 2023, saying, “If it were in my power, I would’ve already banned them.”
Conroe ISD’s current policy already limits the use of electronic devices. Students in grades pre-K through 6 were allowed to use devices only before or after school, while middle and high school students had limited access during lunch and passing periods. Under the new policy, use of all personal devices will be prohibited during school hours across all grade levels.
Each CISD campus will be responsible for implementing the policy based on its environment, and families will be notified of the changes ahead of the fall semester.
Mark A. Murrell, CISD's executive director of operations, anticipates that numerous questions and concerns will arise during the implementation of the policy. Murrell shared, “While we understand and respect student opinions, including opposition efforts, Conroe ISD is legally required to follow this new state law.”
The updated policy will officially take effect on Aug. 13 for all K-12 campuses.
