With the amendment of Act 4 from First Special Session Laws of Hawaii 2021, SB2072 alters the requirements for educational reporting to better protect personally identifiable information (PII) under federal laws, such as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Accordingly, the DOE is prohibited from including PII in public reports, which helps to ensure that students' personal information remains confidential during public health assessments. This change highlights an important balance between maintaining public health safety and adhering to privacy protections.
Senate Bill 2072 modifies existing regulations regarding how the Department of Education (DOE) reports information about public health emergencies, specifically related to COVID-19 outbreaks in schools. The bill authorizes the Department of Health (DOH) to require the DOE to report potential outbreaks and other related public health concerns but does not mandate public posting of that information on the DOE's website as previously required. This change reflects a shift towards a more flexible reporting system that allows the DOH to determine the best way to communicate health risks associated with schools.
The sentiment regarding SB2072 is ambivalent. Supporters appreciate the flexibility it offers in reporting potential health outbreaks while ensuring privacy for students and staff. However, some critics argue that reducing transparency concerning COVID-19 reports may lead to a lack of awareness in communities regarding health risks in schools. This debate underscores the ongoing challenges and sensitivities involved in managing public health communications in the context of education during a pandemic.
A notable point of contention surrounding SB2072 revolves around the potential consequences of limiting public disclosures about health-related incidents in educational settings. Critics warn that while the bill seeks to safeguard privacy, it may inadvertently hinder parents' ability to make informed decisions regarding their children's health and safety. The discussion highlights differing priorities between maintaining personal confidentiality and ensuring comprehensive public health awareness.