House Bill 1481: Phone Restrictions

House Bill 1481, sponsored by Rep. Caroline Fairly, Republican-Amarillo, prohibits students from using phones, earbuds, and other digital devices during the school day.

The law is intended to “empower teachers to have the focus of their students,” Fairly said.

Many students expressed frustration with the ban, but others have noticed benefits.
“I’ve gotten so much more homework done, and I’m more focused in classes,” sophomore Monroe Craddock said.

Senate Bill 10 and 11: Religious Displays in Schools

Senate Bill 10, introduced by Sen. Phil King, Republican-Weatherford, requires public schools to display the Ten Commandments in classrooms. King specified that the displays must be at least 16 inches wide and 20 inches tall.

The law is being challenged in court by the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas and other groups, which argue that it is unconstitutional.

“There is an additional historical significance to the Ten Commandments, outside of its religious implications,” River Wylie, government and economics teacher, said.

Some students said the displays are “a good thing to note,” while others questioned whether the law violates separation of church and state.

Lawmakers also passed Senate Bill 11, which permits school districts to set aside time for prayer. The law is optional and mandates parental consent for student participation.

Senate Bill 12: Club Restrictions

Senate Bill 12 requires parental permission forms for students to join school clubs. It also prohibits clubs organized around race, color, ethnicity, gender identity or sexual orientation.

Pearl Lam, vice president of the Hong Kong Club, said she worries the law will discourage cultural groups. “Why are they making it harder for us to build community and a sense of belonging?” Lam said.

Lam added that Hong Kong history could be labeled as too “sensitive” or “political,” limiting opportunities for discussion. Other groups potentially affected include the Muslim Club, South Asia Club, and LGBTQ+ Club.

Senate Bill 13: Book Control

Senate Bill 13 increases parental and school board control over district library collections. If at least 10%, or at least 50 parents, sign on, library book titles will be reviewed.

Librarian Zandra Lopez said the law applies only to new purchases. “Nothing already in the library will be banned,” Lopez said. She noted that parents can review titles and discuss changes with the district.

Additionally, Sora, an e-book platform, is temporarily unavailable while its content is reviewed under the new law.