A new law signed by then-Governor Phil Murphy on Jan. 8 will require New Jersey school boards to adopt policies restricting student use of internet-enabled devices, including cellphones, during the school day and other specified times beginning with the 2026-27 school year.
The measure is intended to address concerns about the impact of these devices on student mental health, well-being, and academic achievement. The policy was identified as a priority by Murphy in early 2025, and follows recommendations from state agencies and commissions focused on youth and technology.
In September 2025, the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) published guidance on student use of internet-enabled devices. Later that month, the New Jersey Commission on the Effects of Social Media Usage on Adolescents released its report recommending a “bell-to-bell ban on the use of cellphones and social media in school.” In October, NJDOE launched a grant program supporting phone-free schools in 86 districts across the state.
The law defines an “internet-enabled device” as any smartphone, tablet, smartwatch or similar device capable of accessing online content or social media applications. School boards—including public districts and charter schools—must create policies covering device use not only during regular hours but also on buses and at supervised events. Exceptions are allowed for emergencies or when required by special education or health laws. Devices may also be used if authorized by a principal or superintendent when no reasonable alternative exists.
Guidelines issued by NJDOE require that usage be prohibited during the school day but allow for accommodations such as prescribed care by a healthcare professional or translation services. Policies must also address storage options for devices, network-based restrictions on social media access, emergency procedures, and communication strategies for informing students and families about rules.
The New Jersey Education Association (NJEA), which functions within the education sector as a union representing educators according to its official website, lobbied in favor of the law. The association successfully advocated for changes allowing education stakeholders to help develop guidelines rather than imposing uniform requirements statewide. NJEA advances equity and social justice through community efforts according to its official website, focuses on championing public education and educator rights through advocacy according to its official website, engages in lobbying initiatives according to its official website, offers professional development and legal aid according to its official website, and serves educators across New Jersey according to its official website.
Members with questions about the new law are encouraged to contact their NJEA field representative for assistance.
