Alabama House Bill HB364

Alabama 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/21/24
• Report Pass: 4/17/24
• Refer: 3/21/24

Caption

Public K-12 schools, each local board of education required to adopt an Internet safety policy for district-owned devices used in schools, prohibit use of certain platforms, provide social media instruction in certain grades

Impact

This legislative measure aims at enhancing the safety and security of students as they navigate the digital landscape while in school. By enforcing these restrictions, the state intends to align educational practices with contemporary concerns regarding online safety. Furthermore, by facilitating age-appropriate and secure internet usage, this bill could potentially foster a generation of students who are more mindful of their digital footprint and the privacy implications associated with social media engagement.

Summary

House Bill 364 mandates that each local board of education in Alabama establish an Internet safety policy governing student access to the Internet on district-owned devices. The bill's primary purpose is to ensure a safer and more secure environment for students while using technology in educational settings. It requires that this policy restricts access to only age-appropriate content, protects students' personal information, and prohibits access to certain social media platforms unless directed by teachers for educational activities. Notably, the bill specifically bans platforms like TikTok from being used to promote school-related activities.

Contention

During discussions around HB 364, there may be points of contention related to the balance between ensuring safety and limiting student access to resources that could be educationally beneficial. Critics of the bill may argue that outright prohibitions of certain platforms could hinder the educational opportunities that schools can offer, particularly in a technologically advanced educational framework. Moreover, the requirements for instruction on social media's effects on mental health, misinformation, and cybersecurity may raise concerns regarding the adequacy of training and resources available to educators implementing these guidelines.