At a Glance
- Governor Phil Murphy signed a statewide ban on student cellphone use in K-12 schools.
- The rule covers school hours, buses, and sanctioned events.
- Murphy cited improved focus and reduced anxiety in districts already testing the policy.
- Why it matters: Parents will need new pickup plans and students face device-free days starting immediately.
New Jersey just became the latest state to pull the plug on smartphones during school hours. Governor Murphy put pen to paper Thursday at Ramsey High School, making a bipartisan phone-free bill law.
What the Law Does
The measure bars students from using cellphones or any internet-enabled device while class is in session, on the bus, or at school events. It covers every public school student from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Districts like Cherry Hill already enforce their own bans. Murphy says the statewide rule will level the playing field and give teachers a quieter classroom.
Where the Push Began
Murphy first floated the idea in his 2025 State of the State address. After visits to pilot schools, he reported:
- Students laughed and talked face-to-face rather than through screens.
- Teachers noticed deeper focus and calmer hallways.
- Anxiety levels dropped when constant notifications disappeared.
Governor Murphy declared:
> “With today’s bill signing, we are ensuring New Jersey schools are a place for learning and engagement, not distracting screens that detract from academic performance.”
He added that removing “needless distractions” will help kids be more attentive and engaged.
What Happens Next
Individual districts must now write enforcement guidelines. Parents should expect:
- Phones locked in pouches or left in lockers during the day.
- Possible discipline for repeat violations.
- Designated areas or times for emergency calls.
Key Takeaways
- New Jersey’s K-12 cellphone ban is effective immediately.
- The rule applies to class time, buses, and school events.
- Districts that already tried phone-free policies report better focus and social interaction.
- Families will need alternate plans for after-school pickup or emergencies.
Students across the Garden State are now on notice: when the bell rings, the screens go dark.
