Parents Opt-in Protection Act
If enacted, HB 1094 would significantly change how educational institutions can collect data from students. By establishing a requirement for prior written consent for surveys and evaluations that might elicit sensitive personal information, the bill aims to enhance the privacy protections for students. This could lead to a more cautious approach among educational bodies regarding data collection practices and the type of information they request from students and families.
House Bill 1094, known as the Parents Opt-in Protection Act, seeks to amend the General Education Provisions Act to strengthen the protection of students' personal information. The bill mandates that students cannot be required to participate in surveys, analyses, or evaluations that reveal personal information without prior written consent. This includes ensuring that such consent is obtained not just from the student, but from a parent in the case of unemancipated minors.
The bill has sparked debate among lawmakers and interest groups. Advocates of the bill argue that it is essential for safeguarding the rights of students and ensuring that parental authority is respected in educational settings. Critics, however, are concerned that the additional requirements for consent could hinder the collection of valuable data that could be used to improve educational programs and services. Moreover, there are concerns that the law could impede schools' abilities to conduct legitimate educational assessments or evaluations necessary for the children's development and well-being.