This bill amends existing law to limit the use and disclosure of certain education records, specifically regarding financial aid applications for high school students. Starting with the 2023-2024 grade 11 class and for the following two school years, students and their parents or guardians must complete a financial aid application to receive a high school diploma unless a waiver is submitted. The bill introduces a simplified waiver template that requires minimal personal information, including the student's name, contact details, and the signature of the individual submitting the waiver. Additionally, it mandates that school districts and charter schools notify students and parents about this requirement annually.

Importantly, the bill establishes strict guidelines on the confidentiality of waivers submitted. It prohibits school districts and charter schools from using or disclosing any waiver or personal information contained within it without the informed consent of the student or their parent or guardian, in accordance with federal and state privacy laws. The Department of Education is tasked with ensuring that this confidentiality language is prominently included in any waiver templates. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that it does not invalidate any waivers submitted before its effective date, ensuring that those waivers remain subject to the new disclosure protections.