TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Azya Thornton on Aug 1, 2025

Middle Tennessee school districts are rolling out new cellphone policies to comply with a state law that went into effect on July 1. In March, Tennessee lawmakers passed legislation banning the use of cellphones and other wireless devices during classroom instruction time. According to WPLN, the law includes exceptions for students with disabilities or medical needs, as well as those who use wireless devices for educational purposes. The law allows school districts to set their own levels of cellphone restriction. In recent weeks, school boards have been updating their policies accordingly. Under the final version of the law, students may use their phones during emergencies. The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Rebecca Alexander, R-Jonesborough, said school districts are responsible for finalizing the details, but she expects boards to adopt policies that include notifying parents directly in emergency situations. The Tennessee Board of Education will review each policy to ensure compliance.