Governor Ivey Signs Screen Time Limits for Early Childhood Education Programs into Law -

March 5, 2026 - 00:30

MONTGOMERY – Governor Kay Ivey has signed into law a new measure restricting electronic screen access for young children in state-licensed early education and childcare programs. The Healthy Early Development and Screen Time Act, signed Wednesday, establishes clear boundaries for device usage where Alabama's youngest citizens learn and play.

The legislation, a highlighted priority for the governor, mandates that screen time in these settings cannot be used for children under two years of age, except for occasional video chatting with family. For children aged two to five, any electronic media exposure must be strictly limited, directly tied to an educational activity, and may not exceed one hour per day.

Proponents of the law argue it is a critical step in safeguarding early childhood development, emphasizing the importance of hands-on learning, physical activity, and direct social interaction during formative years. The act provides specific guidelines for childcare providers, aiming to ensure environments are conducive to healthy cognitive and emotional growth.

The new regulations will be implemented across all licensed childcare facilities, including pre-kindergarten and early learning programs. Officials state the policy is designed to support developmental milestones by prioritizing interactive play and educator engagement over passive screen exposure. The law's passage marks a significant shift in operational standards for early childhood education across the state.