Generally revise pupil data privacy protections
The legislation mandates that vendors providing facial recognition services to schools must delete all collected biometric data immediately upon contract termination. Furthermore, the bill outlines the requirements for third-party operators of K-12 online applications to uphold stringent privacy protocols regarding pupil records. This includes contractual obligations which affirm that pupil data remains under the control of the school district and explicitly prohibit any sale or misuse of such sensitive information.
House Bill 690 aims to enhance pupil data privacy protections in Montana schools by regulating the use of facial recognition technology within public K-12 institutions. The bill permits school districts to employ such technology strictly for safety-related purposes, including crime investigation on school property, injury assessments, and monitoring campus visitors. Notably, the bill prohibits the use of facial recognition data for marketing or any other unrelated purpose, ensuring that biometric information is only utilized for specific, school-related safety measures.
Debate surrounding HB 690 has focused on the potential benefits and risks associated with its implementation. Proponents argue that by enacting these measures, the bill protects student privacy and addresses concerns about unauthorized data use by educational technology vendors. Critics, however, remain wary of the effectiveness of privacy safeguards, questioning whether the limitations on facial recognition usage will adequately prevent potential privacy violations and misuse of data. The discussions highlight a broader tension between ensuring school safety and protecting student civil liberties.