TX SB966

Requires the Department of State Health Services, coordinating with the Texas Education Agency, to conduct a study on the public health effects of digital learning on student mental health and academic performance, with a report due to the legislature by September 1, 2026

Mandates that all school districts and open-enrollment charter schools adopt written policies prohibiting students from possessing personal communication devices (smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, etc.) on school property during the school day, effective for the 2025-2026 school year

Requires students who bring devices to school to turn them off and store them in designated lockers, with confiscation and secure storage for non-compliant students until the end of the school day

Establishes mandatory exceptions allowing device possession for students with IEPs or Section 504 plans, documented medical needs, volunteer emergency responders, language translation services, or other legal requirements

Increases the maximum administrative fee schools may charge before releasing a confiscated device from $15 to $30, with disposal permitted after 30 days' written notice to the parent or guardian