The bill amends Section 1003.574 of the Florida Statutes, removing references to the now-obsolete Video Cameras in Public School Classrooms Pilot Program and establishing a new framework for the installation and operation of video cameras in self-contained classrooms. It allows parents of students in these classrooms to submit written requests to school principals for video camera installation, requiring school districts to adopt a policy to address these requests within 60 days. The policy must include criteria for approval or denial, a submission window for requests, and a process for parents to provide supporting information. Additionally, the bill limits parents to one request per student per school year, with exceptions for material changes in circumstances.

The bill also stipulates that once a request is approved, the video camera must be operational within 30 days and remain in use for the school year unless the request is withdrawn. It mandates that video recordings include audio and prohibits schools from concealing the identities of employees in the recordings. Furthermore, it outlines the retention period for recordings, the process for viewing them, and the rights of parents and school personnel regarding access to the footage. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 1170 Filed: 14.36, 1003.574
S 1170 c1: 1003.574