RAMSEY - New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy Thursday signed bipartisan legislation requiring all school districts in the state to adopt policies restricting the use of cell phones and other internet-enabled devices in K-12 schools.
“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. In schools across our state, from Ramsey to Woodbury, we have seen the positive impact of phone-free policies,” Murphy said when signing the bill at Ramsey High School. “Teachers report that students are more focused, less anxious, and they are socializing and laughing with each other — not through a screen — but in hallways and classrooms. By getting rid of needless distractions, we are fundamentally changing our schools’ learning environments and encouraging our children to be more attentive and engaged during the school day. This is a sensible policy that will make a world of difference for our children.”
The bill requires the Commissioner of Education to publish guidelines on restricting students’ use of cell phones and other internet-enabled devices during regular school hours, on a school bus, or during school-sanctioned events. Boards of education will be required to adopt policies that align with the statewide K–12 guidelines. Board policies must, among other provisions, prohibit the non-academic use of personal internet-enabled devices on school grounds during the school day, with limited exceptions.
The NJ Department of Education is reviewing its previously published Guidance for Schools on Student Use of Internet-Enabled Devices and anticipates publishing updated guidelines in mid-January in consultation with stakeholders. The guidelines will outline best practices for secure storage, staff training and equitable enforcement, ensuring that every student benefits from fewer distractions and better opportunities for engagement. District policies will become effective for the 2026–2027 school year.
“I applaud the Governor for taking a big step to protect our kids by making schools a safe, phone-free place to learn. Our young people are facing a mental health crisis – but, we all know that when children put the screens down, their mental health and academic results improve,” Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill said. “I look forward to implementing this important legislation and continuing to make progress on kids' online safety and holding Big Tech accountable for the content they push toward our kids.”
Commissioner of Education Kevin Dehmer said cell phones in schools impact mental health and academic achievement.
“Today’s legislation provides the framework to ensure every classroom is a place for learning and free of distractions. Our guidelines will be practical, developmentally appropriate, and equitable, helping districts create policies that protect student focus and well-being,” he said.
In December 2025, 86 school districts were awarded grants under the Phone-Free Schools Grant Program. The program, funded with a $3 million appropriation in the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget, supports schools committed to implementing bell-to-bell cell phone bans in purchasing equipment like pouches or funding training or engagement sessions.
Research indicates that limiting phone use improves test scores, especially for struggling students, and reduces mental health risks related to excessive social media use. By reducing digital distractions and fostering healthier school climates, New Jersey is taking steps to ensure that every classroom is a place for learning, connection, and growth.
Sponsors of the legislation (S3695/A4882) include Sens. Paul Moriarty and Kristin Corrado, along with Assembly Members Rosy Bagolie, Cody Miller and Carmen Theresa Morales.
