Students across Texas will be directly impacted by HB1481, a bill that limits or bans phone use in schools. This affects high schoolers, middle schoolers, and even some elementary students who rely on their phones for communication with parents, learning tools, personal safety, and mental health support.

If this bill goes into effect, thousands of students will lose access to their devices during school hours even in emergencies or for legitimate academic purposes. This could prevent students from contacting parents in urgent situations, accessing digital schoolwork, managing health conditions, or documenting inappropriate behavior at school. It could also increase anxiety and isolation in students who depend on their phones for comfort or access to support systems.

Texas House Bill 1481 is already enrolled, meaning it’s dangerously close to becoming permanent. If we don’t act now, students across the state could face unfair, outdated restrictions in the coming school year. We urge lawmakers to listen to the voices of students, parents, and educators who believe in digital responsibility.