The bill amends section 1003.57 of the Florida Statutes to prohibit district school superintendents and principals from increasing the total number of students in certain classes for exceptional students by more than 50 percent. Additionally, it creates a new section, 1003.5741, which mandates the installation of video cameras in self-contained classrooms within public schools and charter schools. The bill outlines specific requirements for these cameras, including their operation, maintenance, and the conditions under which video recordings must be retained or deleted. It also establishes protocols for notifying parents and staff about the camera placements and the viewing of recorded footage.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of student privacy and sets forth guidelines for the viewing of video recordings, including who may access them and under what circumstances. It provides an appeal process for individuals who believe their rights have been violated under this section and clarifies that incidental viewings of recordings by certain personnel do not constitute a violation. The Department of Education is tasked with collecting information related to the implementation of these video cameras, and the State Board of Education is authorized to adopt rules to facilitate the bill's provisions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 257 Filed: 1003.57