Overview
- Gov. Phil Murphy signed the legislation Thursday, making New Jersey the latest state to restrict student phone use during the school day.
- The law bans non-academic use of internet-connected devices for all K–12 public schools during school hours.
- The policy takes effect in the 2026–2027 school year, with the education commissioner to issue guidance on storage methods, enforcement, and coverage on buses and at school-sanctioned events.
- Local school boards must adopt policies that align with the forthcoming state guidelines, supported by $3 million in state grants.
- Incoming Gov. Mikie Sherrill signaled support for implementation, and AP counts 37 states plus the District of Columbia with limits, including 19 with full-day bans.