UPDATE: New Jersey has officially enacted a groundbreaking “bell-to-bell” ban on smartphone use in public schools, an urgent move aimed at enhancing student engagement and mental health. Governor Phil Murphy signed the law today at Ramsey High School, with implementation set for the 2026-2027 school year.
This new legislation mandates that all public school districts across New Jersey enforce strict policies prohibiting the use of internet-enabled devices during school hours, except for specific educational purposes. The initiative is designed to create a distraction-free learning environment for students from kindergarten to 12th grade.
During the signing event, a local teenager shared his experiences with Yondr pouches, which have been used under Ramsey’s existing cell phone ban. This personal testimony highlighted the positive impacts of reduced screen time on peer interaction and focus.
The law, which passed overwhelmingly in the state legislature with a vote of 63-3 in the Assembly and 37-0 in the Senate, is supported by educators, lawmakers, and parents alike. Assemblywoman Rosy Bagolie, a key supporter of the legislation and a career educator, emphasized its importance: “This bill will help ensure that students are fully engaged in learning while they are in the classroom.”
Many parents have expressed relief, noting that although students initially struggled to part with their devices, they ultimately found freedom in focusing on their peers and teachers without digital distractions.
Another advocate for the law, Assemblyman Cody Miller, reiterated that the ban is not punitive but rather a supportive measure to enhance the educational experience. The New Jersey Education Association President, Steve Beatty, who also teaches at Bridgewater-Raritan Regional High School, stressed that this policy will significantly improve students’ mental health and foster stronger classroom communities.
In a related move, New Jersey has allocated nearly $1 million in phone-free grants to support schools in implementing these new restrictions. Over 22% of this funding has been designated for Newark’s public schools, the largest district in the state, which aims to adopt the new policies swiftly.
The legislation marks a significant shift in educational policy, responding to increasing concerns about the impact of smartphones on student well-being and learning. With schools already reporting improvements in student engagement where similar bans have been enacted, this law could reshape the educational landscape in New Jersey.
As the 2026-2027 school year approaches, districts across the state will need to prepare for these changes, ensuring that students can thrive in an environment conducive to learning.
Watch for updates on how schools implement these policies and the ongoing effects on student life as New Jersey leads the charge in creating a phone-free educational environment.
