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DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed bipartisan legislation to create healthier learning environments by requiring schools to implement policies concerning cell phone use during the school day. HB25-1135 is sponsored by Representatives Meghan Lukens, Mary Bradfield, R-El Paso County and Senators Janice Marchman and Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock.
“This law will allow us to create healthier learning environments for our students by limiting distractions caused by cell phones,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs. “As an educator, I know reducing classroom distractions is essential for fostering a learning environment where students are focused on the material, asking questions and learning alongside their peers in person. This bipartisan law empowers school districts to create their own student cell phone use policy to limit distractions and boost engagement.”
“Many teachers already work hard to limit phone use in class, but they need backup,” said Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland. “This new law gives local schools the support to set clear, consistent policies – so students can focus, learn, and take a real break from the pressures of constant connectivity."
HB25-1135 requires school districts and the Charter School Institute schools to adopt policies concerning cell phone use during the school day no later than July 1, 2026. The law does not specify what the policy should say; it must not interfere with disability standards, special education programs, or students’ ability to monitor a medical condition.
Research shows that student use of cell phones in schools can have negative effects on performance, including lower test scores and smaller learning gains. Additionally, excessive cell phone use is associated with higher levels of depression and anxiety.
From Florida to Ohio, at least 19 states have laws or policies that address the use of student cell phone use in schools or encourage districts to create their own policies as a best practice.