Purcell Public Schools

Purcell Public Schools is committed to the safety of our students and community. We are writing to inform you of a new Oklahoma state law, House Bill 2263, that will directly impact drivers in and around our school campuses.

What is House Bill 2263?

Effective November 1, 2025, this new law makes it unlawful for any person to operate a motor vehicle while using or holding a hand-held cellular telephone or electronic communication device in an active school zone or a road construction zone.

The intent of the law is to curb distracted driving and enhance safety in areas where children and pedestrians are most present.

Key Provisions for Drivers
The new restriction applies when:

1. You are driving in a properly marked school zone with appropriate warning signs.
2. A reduced speed limit is posted and is in effect due to the presence, or potential presence, of school children (i.e., when school is active).
3. Your motor vehicle is in motion.

What is Prohibited?
Drivers are prohibited from:
* Holding a cell phone or electronic communication device in their hand.
* Manually composing, sending, or reading a text message.
* Using a hand-held device for talking, navigation, or any other purpose.

What is Still Allowed?
Drivers may still use a cellular telephone or electronic communication device if:
It is used in conjunction with hands-free or voice-operated technology (e.g., Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto), which allows you to operate the device without using your hands, except to activate a feature.
It is used for the sole purpose of communicating about an imminent emergency situation with first responders, a hospital, a physician's office, or an ambulance provider.

Penalties
A violation of this law, upon conviction, is punishable by a fine of not more than One Hundred Dollars ($100.00). The Department of Public Safety will not assess points on a driver's record for this violation.

Our Call to Action
As you travel through Purcell school zones—including drop-off and pickup areas—we urge you to prepare for this change and adopt safe, hands-free practices immediately. Please make any necessary calls or texts before entering a school zone to ensure your full attention remains on driving and the safety of the children.

Your cooperation in adhering to House Bill 2263 is essential to maintaining a safe environment for all Purcell students and staff.

Thank you for helping us keep our school zones safe.