New Jersey Assembly Bill A3948

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/12/22
• Refer: 5/12/22

Caption

Prohibits cloud computing service providers from disclosing data collected from public, private, or charter schools.

Impact

If enacted, A3948 will lay a significant legal foundation that regulates how cloud service providers manage educational records. By enforcing strict non-disclosure requirements, the bill will protect sensitive student information from unauthorized access and ensure that such data is used exclusively for educational purposes. It intends to preemptively address potential data breaches and misuse that could arise from the disclosure of personal information in an era where cyber threats are prevalent.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3948, introduced in New Jersey, aims to enhance the privacy and security of educational records handled by cloud computing service providers engaged with public, private, and charter schools. The central premise of the bill is to prohibit these service providers from disclosing any educational data collected or maintained, except to authorized school personnel including students, teachers, and staff members. This legal safeguard is vital as educational institutions increasingly rely on cloud-based platforms for their operations and record-keeping.

Contention

Despite its protective intentions, the bill may provoke discussions regarding the balance between data privacy and the operational needs of educational institutions. Stakeholders may raise concerns about the implications for transparency and the potential increase in compliance burdens for education providers. Moreover, the enforcement provisions delineated in the bill, including civil penalties for non-compliance, could lead to debates about the feasibility of monitoring cloud service providers and holding them accountable for breaches, particularly given the diversity of these services.