North Dakota – North Dakota’s K-12 public schools will soon implement phone-free policies, thanks to the signing of House Bill 1160 by Governor Kelly Armstrong on April 25, 2025. The new law, which takes effect on August 1, will require all personal electronic communication devices to be securely stored and inaccessible to students during instructional hours, from the start of the school day until dismissal. This “bell-to-bell” phone-free policy aims to help students focus on their education and reduce distractions caused by mobile phones and social media.

Governor Armstrong, who signed the bill at Centennial Elementary School in Bismarck with students, school officials, and legislators in attendance, praised the bill as potentially one of the most impactful pieces of legislation from this session. He emphasized that the law will support the academic success, mental health, and well-being of students, providing them with the freedom to engage with their teachers and peers without the constant distraction of their devices.

“This is a game-changer for our public schools, giving students the freedom to focus on learning and to interact with teachers and friends without the constant tug of their cell phones and addictive social media,” Governor Armstrong said. “We appreciate the hard work of legislators, education leaders, and other stakeholders who worked tirelessly to pass this bill in just four weeks. This can’t wait two more years; we need to act now.”

The legislation, which passed with broad support in both the Senate and the House, was championed by Governor Armstrong, Lt. Governor Michelle Strinden, and State Superintendent Kirsten Baesler. The bill was introduced and led by Rep. Jim Jonas, with significant contributions from Sen. Michelle Axtman and other education advocates. The law passed the Senate 42-4 and the House 82-8, showing overwhelming bipartisan support.

State Superintendent Baesler expressed concern over the growing mental health challenges faced by students, which have increasingly hindered effective learning. She explained that teachers have expressed concerns over the effects of phones and social media on students’ ability to focus and engage with lessons. The new law aims to address these issues by restricting phone use during school hours, with exceptions for medical needs or individual education plans (IEPs).

Baesler pointed out that many other states already have similar policies or laws in place. She believes the bill will significantly improve students’ mental health and overall educational experience by reducing distractions and promoting more direct, meaningful interactions.

The law does allow for the use of school-issued tablets and devices for educational purposes, while personal devices may be used under certain exceptions. Students requiring devices for medical or educational reasons will be exempt from the restrictions. Schools will also have flexibility in deciding how to store personal electronic devices.

Bismarck Public Schools Superintendent Jeff Fastnacht expressed his support for the bill, stating that it reflects a shared understanding of the importance of minimizing distractions in the classroom. He commended the leadership of the Governor, First Lady Kjersti Armstrong, and Lt. Governor Strinden for their commitment to supporting student success and mental health.

The signing of House Bill 1160 marks a significant step forward in North Dakota’s efforts to address student well-being and academic achievement by reducing the impact of technology-related distractions in the classroom.