Gov. Kathy Hochul has rolled out a new website that allows parents and students to look up how their schools will enforce New York’s new restrictions on smartphones in classrooms, set to take effect this fall.

The site — ny.gov/phonefree — provides searchable information for more than 1,050 public school districts, charter schools and BOCES programs that have already submitted their policies for the 2025-2026 school year, covering roughly 96% of schools subject to the new law, Hochul said in a release.

What You Need To Know

  • Hochul has rolled out a website that allows parents and students to look up how their schools will enforce new restrictions on smartphones in classrooms

  • The site — ny.gov/phonefree — provides searchable information for more than 1,050 public school districts

  • Rather than dictate a single approach, the state is requiring local districts to develop their own storage and enforcement plans, in consultation with teachers, parents and students

The remaining districts are expected to finalize their plans in the coming weeks, according to the release.

“Our kids succeed when they’re learning and growing, not clicking and scrolling — and that’s why schools across New York will be ready to implement bell-to-bell smartphone restrictions this fall,” Hochul said in a statement. “As we look ahead to the start of the school year, communication is key — and our new online resource is making it easier for parents and students to review their school’s plan.”

The law, enacted earlier this year, will bar unsanctioned use of smartphones and other internet-enabled personal devices during the school day — from the opening bell to final dismissal — in all K-12 public schools. 

The rules apply to classroom time, as well as lunch and study hall periods, the release noted.

Rather than dictate a single approach, the state is requiring local districts to develop their own storage and enforcement plans, in consultation with teachers, parents and students.

Schools will have to provide a way for parents to contact their children during the day and are barred from imposing “inequitable discipline” for students who break the rules, according to the release.

The state has set aside $13.5 million to help schools buy storage equipment for the devices.

Exceptions to the ban include medical needs, accommodations under a student’s Individualized Education Program, certain academic uses, translation services, family caregiving and emergencies, the release said.

Students will still be allowed to use basic cellphones without internet access, as well as devices provided by their schools for instructional purposes.

Hochul said the online database will be updated as remaining districts submit their plans ahead of the first day of school.