The 2025-2026 New York State budget included a ban on students using internet-enabled devices during the instructional day.  This includes non-instructional periods such as homeroom, lunch, recess, study hall, and passing time.  For the purposes of this law, “school grounds” include any building, athletic field, playground, or land located within the boundaries of the school.  It does not cover school buses while they are on their route. 

Internet-enabled devices covered under this restriction include smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, or any other device capable of connecting to the internet.  The law does not prohibit the use of school-issued internet-enabled devices when used for educational purposes, nor does it restrict the use of devices that are not capable of connecting to the internet. 

No later than August 1, 2025, each district must adopt a written policy prohibiting the use of internet-enabled devices by students during the day. In developing this policy, the district must consult with local stakeholders, including employee organizations representing each bargaining unit, parents, and students.  The policy must include:

• One or more methods for guardians to contact students during the school day. 
• Provision of written notification to guardians about these contact methods at the beginning of each school year and upon enrollment 

While the general use of internet- devices is restricted, the written policy may authorize student use of such a device on an instructional day under specific circumstances, including: 

• If authorized by a teacher or principal for a specific educational purpose. 
• When necessary for the management of a student’s healthcare
• For translation services 
• When included in a student’s IEP or 504 plan 
• For a student who is routinely responsible for the care and well-being of a family member 
• In an emergency