The bill amends Sections 16-46B-1, 16-46B-2, and 16-46B-7 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to expand the definition of computer science and establish new graduation requirements for public K-12 school students. The definition of "computer science" is updated to include emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, emphasizing the creation of new technologies rather than just their use. Additionally, the bill mandates that all public school students must complete an approved computer science course to graduate, starting with students graduating in the 2030-2031 school year. The bill also specifies that these courses must meet high-quality standards set by the State Department of Education.
Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions that allow computer science courses to fulfill mathematics or science credit requirements for high school graduation. Specifically, beginning with the graduating class of 2031, students must earn at least one credit in a department-approved high school level computer science course, which can count towards various credit categories, including mathematics, science, career and technical education, or elective credits. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.