The bill aims to establish a legislative goal for public elementary and secondary schools in Montana to enhance instruction in media literacy. It amends Section 20-1-102 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to include specific objectives that schools should strive to achieve in collaboration with parents or guardians. Among these objectives, the bill emphasizes the importance of developing a strong foundation for literacy and numeracy, fostering critical thinking, and promoting civic responsibility.

Notably, the bill introduces new language that specifically strengthens media literacy education. It includes goals for students to develop the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, create, and act using various forms of communication, as well as to reduce susceptibility to disinformation, misinformation, propaganda, and indoctrination. This addition reflects a growing recognition of the need for students to navigate the complexities of information in the digital age, thereby preparing them for informed citizenship and effective communication.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 20-1-102
HB0508_1(1): 20-1-102
HB0508_1(2): 20-1-102
HB0508_1: 20-1-102