The bill amends several sections of the North Dakota Century Code to enhance the protection of student data and establish data sharing agreements. Notably, it introduces a new requirement for public schools to execute a data sharing agreement with the department as part of the certification process for school approval. This agreement must comply with sections 15.1-07-25.3 and 15.1-07-33. Additionally, the bill mandates that school districts adopt policies for the protection of student data, which include obtaining permission from the board before sharing data with non-employees and allowing data sharing with state entities under specific agreements.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that each school district must implement the state student information system and enter into a data sharing agreement with the department of public instruction, ensuring compliance with federal and state privacy laws. The amendments also require school districts to maintain lists of individuals and entities with whom student data is shared, as well as personnel who have access to this data. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 15.1-07-25.3
Adopted by the House Education Committee: 15.1-06-06, 15.1-07-25.3, 15.1-07-33
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 15.1-06-06, 15.1-07-25.3, 15.1-07-33
Enrollment: 15.1-06-06, 15.1-07-25.3, 15.1-07-33