Loophole in New York State Cell Phone Ban

The loophole is that kids CAN have a cell phone in schools in New York State during the day--but, it has to be a certain kid of cell phone.

It really just cannot have the internet on it. New York State made a massive law that banned all cell phones with internet on them during the school days 'bell to bell' and schools were given a budget to use for whatever means they needed to make that necessary (i.e. storage, etc.)

When do schools start in New York State?

Almost all New York State Public schools will go back this year after Labor Day, so the first day of school will be September 8, 2026.

Now, of course there is a big cell phone ban in schools--which is very polarizing for some parents. On one hand a lot of parents do not want to distractions or any other problems that might stem from cell phones. But, on the other hand, parents want to be able to get ahold of their kids during the school day.

It is important to note that AFTER school there are no rules when it comes to cell phone usage.

According to the New York State website:

Internet-enabled devices: Internet-enabled devices include any smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, or other device capable of connecting to the internet and enabling access to content on the internet, including social media applications. Internet-enabled devices do not include the following:

• Non-internet enabled devices such as cellular phones or other communication devices not capable of connecting to the internet or enabling the individual to access content on the internet