Dallas Express | May 3, 2026

A growing number of states and large school districts are imposing new limits on students’ screen time, shifting away from a heavy reliance on digital devices in early education.

The moves come as lawmakers and educators respond to concerns about student attention, reading proficiency, and the effectiveness of one-to-one device programs. At least five states — Alabama, Utah, Missouri, Kansas, and Tennessee — have advanced or passed measures in 2026 to cap or reduce instructional screen use, particularly in elementary grades.

Los Angeles Unified School District, the nation’s second-largest, voted unanimously this month to develop a comprehensive screen time policy for the 2026-27 school year. The resolution calls for maximum in-school screen time limits by grade level, eliminating student use of digital devices for early education through first grade, and prohibiting student-led use of YouTube or other video streaming platforms.

Several states have taken legislative action, reported Multistate. Alabama’s HB 78, signed March 4, 2026, requires the development of screen time standards for early childhood education and training for teachers and staff. Utah’s HB 273 directs the State Board of Education to create model policies that sharply curtail screen time in grades K-3, with limited exceptions for computer science and assessments.

Other states are considering stricter measures. For example, Missouri’s proposal would require that 70% of elementary assignments be completed with pencil and paper.

The trend builds on widespread cellphone restrictions already in place, noted ExcelinEd. More than 30 states and Washington, D.C., have enacted phone-free policies for K-12 schools.

Proponents argue that reducing screen time improves focus, reading skills, and mental health, per Fortune. Some districts have reported early gains after dialing back devices. In Burke County, North Carolina, a shift toward printed materials was associated with improved reading comprehension and reduced homework stress, according to local reports.

Critics caution that abrupt changes could strain budgets and curricula already built around digital tools, as noted by the Thomas B. Fordham Institute. Many school systems lack sufficient printed materials, and some curricula require digital components. Implementation challenges include teacher training and equitable access for students with disabilities.

In Texas, no statewide law limiting instructional screen time for classroom devices such as Chromebooks or tablets has passed as of May 1, 2026. However, the state enacted House Bill 1481 in 2025, requiring all school districts to restrict personal device use during the school day. Districts may choose full campus bans, secure storage options, or classroom-only restrictions.

Dallas ISD has implemented strict cellphone policies in compliance with the law that include the following key takeaways:

• Dallas ISD requires all schools to comply with Texas House Bill 1481, which bans the use or display of personal electronic devices by students during the school day.
• Prohibited items include cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, laptops, wireless earbuds, and smart glasses.
• In elementary schools, teachers collect devices each morning and keep them securely stored until dismissal.
• Middle and high school students must keep devices in secure campus-provided storage (such as locking pouches) throughout the day.
• The policy took full effect on August 12, 2025, to create a more focused learning environment.
• Limited exceptions exist for students with IEPs, 504 plans, or documented medical and safety needs.

As the 2026-27 school year approaches, more districts are expected to review their technology policies in response to state actions and local parent feedback.