Bill Restricting Phone Use For Students In School Signed Into Law

A bill restricting cell phone use by students in schools in Tennessee has now been signed into law by Governor Bill Lee. The legislation requires school boards in the state of Tennessee to create policies restricing the use of cell phones by students during class time. There is an exeption in the bill for those students who have disabilities that need a cell phone for learning assistance, or if they need their phone to monitor a health condition. There is also an exception for a student who needs a cell phone for a class presentation.

School boards are also tasked with coming up with the punishment for a student who violates the policy and schools can decide whether to lock up phones during class time, or permit students to retain control of their phone. These changes will take effect with the next school year which will begin for most school districts in August…that includes Cocke County whose first day of class for the 2025-26 school year is set for August 1.