Key Provision to Ban Student Cell Phones at DoDEA Included in 2026 National Defense Authorization Act

WASHINGTON, D.C, - On Sunday, the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act text was released and included a key provision introduced by Senator Banks-the Restoring our Educational Focus on Children of U.S. Servicemembers at DoDEA (REFOCUS DoDEA) Act.

In June, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced theREFOCUS DoDEA Act. This legislation will help students at Department of Defense K-12 schools focus more on learning by banning student cellphones in the classroom.

Notably, a Military Times survey found that over a third of servicemembers report dissatisfaction with their children's education, making it a leading factor behind decisions to leave the military. This provision is part of Senator Banks' broader efforts to strengthen educational opportunities for military families and improve retention. Senator Banks highlighted this issue at last weekend's Reagan National Defense Forum (WATCH).

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): "Cell phones don't belong in the classroom, and students learn best when these distractions are removed. This provision will ensure DoDEA students are able to focus on what matters most: their education."

The Restoring our Educational Focus on Children of U.S. Servicemembers at DoDEA:

• Requires DoDEA to issue regulations prohibiting student cellphone use during the school day.
• Establishes appropriate exceptions, such as allowing for use in medical emergencies.
• Provides DoDEA with flexibility to choose how and where to store student cellphones.

Full bill text can be found here.

Background:

The National Defense Authorization Act is U.S. federal law that authorizes annual funding for the Department of Defense and sets policies and priorities.

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