Gov. Pritzker signs 'bell-to-bell' school cellphone ban into law

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Governor JB Pritzker signed SB 2427 into law, which bans cellphones in public schools statewide.

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The goal of the new law is to remove distractions from classrooms.

The law requires school districts to develop and implement a "bell-to-bell" policy, restricting access to cell phones between the hours of the first bell to the final dismissal bell.

Many school districts and private schools already have a similar policy in place.

The new law takes effect for the 2027-2028 school year.

The signing took place on Tuesday at Elgin High School.

On Sept. 1, the Illinois School Board of Education will share a template policy for school districts to start community discussion.

At the start of 2027-2028 academic year, Illinois schools will implement finalized cell phone policies.

The bill allows exceptions for school-issued devices, the ultimate goal is personal growth.

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Exceptions include medical needs, to fulfill an Individualized Education Plan or 504 plan, students who are English learners, students who are caregivers.

Districts will be allowed to decide if high school students can access their phone during lunch or passing periods and potential emergencies.