New York Lawmakers Proposed School Screen Time Limits
The FOCUS Act could change how students in grades K-8 access school-issued devices.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Homework
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New York lawmakers have introduced the FOCUS Act, which aims to restrict the use of school-issued technology for students in prekindergarten through eighth grade. The proposed legislation seeks to bridge a gap in current state policy, which already bans personal smartphones but exempts school-provided devices.
Why it matters
The bill addresses classroom screen time concerns raised by teachers who report that students spend excessive time on digital learning tools. This shift could change daily homework and classroom logistics by prioritizing non-digital assignments and granting families the right to request analog alternatives.
A national study found 96% of public school teachers report students use devices in class. The FOCUS Act would mandate middle schoolers in grades six through eight access technology only via shared labs or carts.
The players
Gallup
An analytics and advisory firm known for conducting public opinion research on education and family trends.
Walton Family Foundation
A philanthropic organization that supports K-12 education research and initiatives.
The details
The FOCUS Act seeks to regulate technology that current bell-to-bell smartphone restrictions omit. Under the proposal, schools must prioritize assignments that do not require digital tools. Furthermore, the bill creates a formal process for students or parents to request non-digital versions of classroom tasks, moving away from a device-heavy learning environment.
Timeline
September 2025 marked the implementation of statewide bell-to-bell smartphone restrictions.
The Gallup and Walton Family Foundation study occurred from May 6-29, 2026.
Gallup released its survey findings in September 2026.
The companion Assembly bill was introduced on September 2, 2026.
The Home Front
This proposal marks a legislative expansion of existing New York state-wide bell-to-bell smartphone restrictions. It reflects a growing effort to regulate school-issued hardware in response to mounting concerns regarding excessive student screen time.
Families should monitor the legislative process to see if their district shifts toward more paper-based assignments for elementary and middle school students. Parents may soon have the ability to formally request non-digital versions of schoolwork under these proposed guidelines.
The takeaway
The FOCUS Act signals a potential transition toward more analog classroom tools for students in early grades through middle school. If you prefer non-digital options for your child, discuss current school policies with their teachers to understand what flexibility already exists for assignments.
Further reading
Learn more about local educational standards in our Homework section.
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