The proposed bill H. 3216 aims to enhance transparency and accountability in K-12 public education in South Carolina by mandating that all public schools record classroom instruction. This includes teacher lectures, guest lectures, and classroom discussions, whether conducted in-person or virtually. Schools are required to maintain the necessary recording equipment, notify students and guardians about the recordings, and obtain explicit written consent for video recordings. The bill also stipulates that recordings must be stored securely and made accessible to the public for five years, in compliance with the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act, while ensuring privacy through redaction or anonymization of sensitive content.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the State Department of Education in overseeing compliance and providing guidance to schools. Schools must submit annual reports detailing their adherence to the recording requirements and any privacy concerns encountered. The bill prohibits the commercial use of these recordings, establishing penalties for violations, including fines or imprisonment. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 59-1-485
Latest Version: 59-1-485
12/06/2024: 59-1-485