Provides for limitations and prohibitions on the collection and sharing of student information. (8/1/14)
Impact
The legislation represents a significant shift in how student data is managed within Louisiana's educational framework, placing a firm emphasis on safeguarding the privacy of personally identifiable information. By requiring parental consent before information can be shared or transmitted, SB 455 empowers parents and guardians, enhancing their role in their children's educational environments. This could prevent the unauthorized use of sensitive data and promote greater transparency between educational institutions and families.
Summary
Senate Bill 455, proposed by Senator Gary Smith, aims to strengthen the privacy protections concerning student information collected by local public school boards, the state Department of Education, and the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE). The bill establishes clear limitations and prohibitions on the type of student information that can be collected, mandating that the collection be restricted to basic information like name, contact data, date of birth, and school attended. It explicitly prohibits the transmission or sharing of this information without receiving full disclosure and written consent from a student's parent or legal guardian.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB 455 appears to be predominantly positive among advocates of student privacy who view the bill as a necessary measure to protect children’s sensitive information in an increasingly digital world. Supporters argue that the bill addresses urgent privacy concerns and aligns with the growing recognition of data protection as a fundamental right. However, some educational administrators may have concerns about the implications of heightened consent requirements and the potential bureaucratic burden associated with compliance.
Contention
While many stakeholders support the intent of SB 455, there are discussions concerning the logistics of implementing parental consent processes and the potential impacts on how schools handle student data. Critics may raise concerns about how strict regulations could hinder school operations or limit data use for beneficial educational purposes. The debate centers on balancing the need for data privacy with the effective administration of educational systems.
Provides for limitations and prohibitions on the collection and sharing of student information and provides penalties for violations (OR DECREASE FF RV See Note)
Provides for limitations and prohibitions on the collection and sharing of student information and the administration of assessments, surveys, and other instruments that solicit certain student information
Provides for limitations and prohibitions on the collection and sharing of student information and provides penalties for violations (EN +$651,000 SD EX See Note)
Provides for limitations and prohibitions on the collection and sharing of student information and provides penalties for violations (OR DECREASE FF RV See Note)