Overview
- Gov. Phil Murphy signed the law on Jan. 8 requiring public schools to prohibit non-academic use of internet-enabled devices during the school day.
- The Education Department will issue updated guidelines in mid-January covering regular hours, buses, and school-sanctioned events, after which local boards must adopt aligned policies.
- Districts retain control over how to manage devices, with options such as locked pouches, lockers, or check‑in cabinets, aided by a $3 million Phone‑Free Schools Grant Program.
- Policies must provide exceptions for emergencies, medical needs, students with disabilities or IEPs, and language translation, with case-by-case accommodations.
- New Jersey’s move follows a nationwide shift toward phone-free school days, with research and early district results highlighting improved focus and school climate, including reports from Ramsey and Woodbury.