The proposed bill, H. 3264, aims to establish a "Media Literacy and Critical Thinking" pilot program within South Carolina public schools, as outlined in the newly added Section 59-1-444 of the South Carolina Code of Laws. The State Department of Education is tasked with implementing this program during the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 school years, selecting seven diverse school districts to participate. The program will focus on various aspects of media literacy, including the ability to access and analyze media, recognize bias, and develop digital citizenship skills. Each pilot site will be required to address specific components of media literacy and report on their strategies and outcomes.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that each pilot program site must submit a report by August 1, 2028, detailing their implementation and findings. The State Department of Education will compile these reports and present a summary to the relevant legislative committees by January 1, 2029. The bill also includes provisions for the development of state standards for media literacy and critical thinking, contingent upon the General Assembly appropriating funds specifically for the program. If funding is not allocated, the department may still establish the program using other available appropriations. The pilot program is set to terminate on June 30, 2026, unless extended or modified by the General Assembly.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 59-1-444
Latest Version: 59-1-444
12/06/2024: 59-1-444