Dallas ISD Schools - Device-Free Zones

House Bill (HB) 1481 is a Texas state law that prohibits student use of personal communication devices on public school campuses during the instructional day. It applies to all Texas school districts, including Dallas ISD.

HB 1481 takes effect September 1, 2025, but Dallas ISD, along with other districts, will begin implementation and enforcement on the first day of school, August 12, to ensure consistency and compliance from day one.

This is a state law passed by the Texas Legislature that all school districts must follow.

Any device capable of telecommunication or digital communication, is prohibited during the school day, which includes:

• Cell phones
• Smartwatches
• Tablets
• Laptops
• AirPods
• Smart glasses

Yes. Students may use personal devices before the first bell and after dismissal, unless otherwise restricted by campus policy.

Students may use the school’s front office phone or request assistance from a staff member in case of an emergency or urgent need.

Yes. Students who require personal devices for medical monitoring (such as diabetes tracking) will be exempt. These must be documented through appropriate medical documentation and with campus health staff.

HB 1481 prohibits student use of personal devices even if a teacher would normally allow them for class. Schools will provide district-approved technology when digital access is necessary. Students who require a cellular device through an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or as granted by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act may receive an exception. 

Yes. Personal devices used in violation of the policy will be confiscated and securely stored at the campus. Device confiscation is a Level II offense, which can result in Disciplinary Alternative Education Placement (DAEP) after the 2nd offense. For schools with Reset Centers, students will be placed in Reset for the 1st offense. Below are infraction levels, per offense, as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.

1st Offense: Parent/guardian may pick up device without fee 
2nd Offense: Parent/guardian may pick up device and pay $5 administrative fee
3rd Offense: Parent/guardian may pick up the device and pay $10 administrative fee
Additional Offenses: Parent/guardian may pick up the device and pay $15 administrative fee

Unclaimed devices after Sept. 1 of the following school year will be disposed of, per policy FNCE(LEGAL).

Based on the number of violations and referrals a student has will determine the process to retrieve confiscated devices.

1. 1st Confiscation: Parent/guardian may pick up the device — no fee.
2. 2nd Confiscation: $5 administrative fee
3. 3rd Confiscation: $10 administrative fee
4. 4th+ Confiscation: $15 administrative fee
   Unclaimed devices after Sept. 1 of the following school year may be disposed of.

We encourage parents to assist with the transition to:

• Talk with students about the importance of focus and digital discipline
• Help students adjust by storing devices in backpacks or at home