(Photo provided, Indiana Governor’s Office)
Indiana Governor Mike Braun Wednesday May 13 2026 ceremonially signed a bill that implements a ‘bell-to-bell’ cell phone restriction in Hoosier schools. The Governors Office says the measure builds on Indiana’s existing restrictions on student device use by setting a clearer standard for limiting cell phones, smartwatches, gaming devices, and other personal wireless communication devices during the school day. The law includes exceptions for emergencies, students with Individualized Education Programs or 504 plans, and medical needs.
“We’ve made major progress improving education for Hoosier students, and this new ‘bell-to-bell’ restriction on cell phone distractions will ensure students are focused on learning. This law supports teachers in the classroom and helps students build better habits at a time when constant distraction is affecting learning and mental health, with common-sense exceptions for emergencies,” said Governor Braun.
Under Senate Enrolled Act (SEA 78), Indiana schools will be required to update their wireless communication device policies to limit student use of personal devices during the school day. The law also directs the Indiana Department of Education to provide model policy language and implementation guidance for schools.
