New School Year Brings Bell-to-Bell Cellphone Ban in Indiana

Gov. Braun says the ban will help students limit distractions and keep students focused and engaged

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INDIANAPOLIS - As Hoosier students prepare to head back to school in the fall, students, parents and guardians will want to be aware of a new bell-to-bell cellphone ban. 

Governor Mike Braun says the ban will help students limit distractions and keep students focused and engaged throughout the entire school day. 

Governor Mike Braun is highlighting Indiana’s new bell-to-bell cell phone ban, which will help schools limit distractions and keep students focused and engaged throughout the entire school day.

“Students should be focused on learning in the classroom. Indiana’s bell-to-bell cell phone ban gives teachers and schools a stronger tool to create an environment focused on learning, and helps students be present while at school.” — Governor Mike Braun

Senate Enrolled Act 78 expanded Indiana’s in-school cell phone restrictions to cover the full day, from the opening bell through dismissal, with exceptions for emergencies.

The bell-to-bell policy not only reinforces student focus in the classroom but also encourages social presence in school.

The new law builds on Governor Braun’s broader work during the 2026 legislative session to protect Hoosier kids and give parents more control over their children’s interactions with Big Tech:

• Governor Braun fought to keep social media safeguards for kids in legislation and won a major victory for parents’ rights to protect their children from Big Tech and the harms of social media.
• House Enrolled Act 1408 requires parental consent for children under 16 to use social media platforms, establishes special under-16 accounts with additional safeguards, and requires social media companies to offer parent accounts that allow parents to monitor usage, establish time limits, and set blackout periods.

Last year, in his first year in office, Governor Braun secured historic universal school choice expansion, an increased starting salary for Hoosier teachers, and increased school investment in Indiana’s budget.