MONTGOMERY — The Alabama Senate passed legislation on Wednesday banning K-12 students from having cell phones and other wireless communication devices in the classroom.
House Bill 166 (HB166), sponsored by State Rep. Leigh Hulsey (R-Helena), addresses students' use of cell phones and other wireless devices during the day's instructional period.
The bill passed by a 30-2 margin. The no votes were Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton (D-Greensboro) and State Sen. Chris Elliott (R-Josephine). An amendment to the bill by Elliott failed by a 9-23 margin. The amendment would have exempted cell phone communications between students and parents and legal guardians from the ban.
Under existing law, a local board of education may permit a student to carry or use a cell phone or other electronic communication device while on school property. HB166 would repeal that law and place new restrictions and requirements on students using "wireless communications devices."
Under the bill, beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, no student may possess a wireless communication device in any public elementary or secondary school building or on the grounds during the instructional day. The bill allows for devices to remain on school grounds so long as they are turned off and stored in a locker, backpack, car or similar storage location.
The bill now heads to Gov. Kay Ivey for her consideration.
The FOCUS Act — which removes the distraction of cell phones during class time — has received final passage! I look forward to getting my signature on this bill and helping our parents and teachers create the best learning environment for our students! #alpolitics pic.twitter.com/LFvwak63mG
— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) May 7, 2025
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