The bill amends R.S. 17:355(C) and (D)(1) to enhance transparency and parental access to instructional materials in public schools. It mandates that local school boards adopt rules ensuring that instructional materials are readily available for review, specifying reasonable hours for in-person access. Parents will have the right to request access to both printed and online instructional materials free of charge, with provisions for obtaining paper copies at a reasonable fee. Additionally, parents will not incur fees for in-person viewing of materials or for accessing them online. The bill also allows local school boards to develop policies for in-person viewing of academic assessments and requires them to submit these policies and fee schedules to the state Department of Education.

Furthermore, the bill defines "instructional materials" to include a wide range of educational content and resources. It emphasizes that no existing laws or school policies should hinder a parent's ability to make copies of instructional materials using their own devices on school premises. The Department of Education is tasked with reporting to legislative committees on compliance with these new requirements by March 2026, ensuring accountability and adherence to the established rules.

Statutes affected:
SB81 Original: 17:355(C)
SB81 Engrossed: 17:355(C)
SB81 Enrolled: 17:355(C)
SB81 Act : 17:355(C)