Mexico City Bans Cell Phones in Primary, Middle Schools

The Mexico City Congress approved reforms to the capital’s Education Law this Thursday. The changes regulate cell phone and electronic device use in public and private elementary and middle schools. Forty-seven votes supported the measure, with none opposing it.

The new rules prohibit students from using cell phones during class time. Exceptions exist for educational activities, emergencies, or with teacher and school authority permission. Lawmakers supporting the ban cited concerns that excessive device use impacts academic performance, classroom attention, and social interaction.

The reforms also direct the City’s Education Secretariat to create specific guidelines for enforcement. They will coordinate with the Federal Education Authority on campaigns promoting safe, responsible digital tool use. Programs will also orient parents and teachers toward digital education and preventing online risks.

Several other Mexican states—Querétaro, Guanajuato, Morelos, Aguascalientes, and the State of Mexico—have recently implemented similar regulations. The reform now moves to publication in the City’s official gazette before taking effect.