HB1481 - It's the Law

 

 

On June 20, 2025, Governor Greg Abbott signed into law a ban on the use of personal communication devices by students during school hours in Texas.

Personal Communication Devices are any electronic device capable of telecommunication or digital communication. This includes (but is not limited to):

Cell phones, such as a smartphone or flip phone, Tablets, Smartwatches, Smart glasses, Paging devices, Walkie-talkies, and headphones/Earbuds

January HISD Updates to HB1481 School Policy

 

Why is our school adopting a phone-free policy?

HISD values a safe and distraction-free learning environment. A new Texas law (House Bill 1481) supports this value and requires school districts to prohibit student use of all personal communication devices on school property during the school day. For the 2025-2026 school year, students may not use personal communication devices on school property during the instructional day. The instructional day is defined as follows: From the time a student arrives on campus in the morning until the final period of the day concludes. Lunch and passing periods are included.  Devices must be turned off and stored in the student's personal bag or backpack at all times during the school day.

My child uses their phone to update me on their after school plans. How will I keep in touch with my child? Your child may use their phones after the conclusion of the last period of the day. This ensures that families can coordinate safe pick-ups with their children, as needed. 

How can I help as a parent? 

• Discuss the importance of focusing on learning during the school day.

• Talk to your student about this new law.

• Remind your students to keep phones off and stored during the school day.

• Ensure your contact information is up to date. Please confirm all information using the Annual Student Information Form.

What if my child has an IEP or 504 plan? Students whose Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 plan requires device use will have device access. Decisions will be determined by the ARD or 504 committee. Contact your child’s campus for assistance if this applies to your child.

My child has a medical condition that requires monitoring. Can they use their phone for this health reason? Students with documented medical conditions may be eligible for an accommodation based on a directive from a qualified physician. Please contact chiefofschoolssupport@houstonisd.org determine eligibility.

What happens during a lockdown or safety event? In an emergency, HISD will communicate updates directly with families usingParentSquare for phone calls, emails, and texts. Make sure that you have registered your account with HISD. Visit our Houston ISD ParentSquare site for information on how to access your account. 

Can my child call me in case of an emergency? If your child experiences a personal or medical emergency, school staff will ensure that you are contacted. 

Where can my child's device be stored? If brought to school property, all devices must be powered off and secured in students' backpacks. HISD is not responsible for the secure storage of any devices.

Do I have to retrieve my child's personal communication device if it is confiscated during the school day?  Yes,  the parent/guardian must retrieve the personal communication device.

What if a student refuses to hand over a device? If a child refuses to hand over a device, HISD will follow disciplinary action outlined in the HISD Student Code of Conduct.

Is the district responsible for damage or loss of personal communication devices? No. HISD is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal devices, including those that are confiscated. Students and families are encouraged to leave valuables at home and adhere to the Personal Communication Device policy.

HB1481 Personal Communication Device Student Parent Acknowledgement.pdf

 

1481 Personal Communication Device Student Parent Acknowledgement Spanish.pdf

Devices that are taken from a student can be picked up in the main office by the parent between 4pm - 4:30 pm on the day they are eligible for pickup.