S.B. No. 1447, introduced by Menndez and others, amends Section 32.1021 of the Education Code to establish new standards for the use of electronic devices and software applications in public schools. The bill mandates that the Texas Education Agency adopt standards that minimize data collection on students, require direct parental consent for software applications, and ensure that mental health assessments are not conducted without consent. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of providing parents with resources on cybersecurity and online safety, specifies deactivation periods for devices, and considers age-appropriate adjustments for device use in classrooms.

The bill also introduces new provisions, including the allowance for students with disabilities to use certain electronic devices or software applications as reasonable accommodations, and it requires schools to assess the security of social media applications before use. Other requirements include the implementation of internet filters to notify administrators and parents of concerning content accessed by students, the assignment of a designated officer to handle complaints regarding device use, and ensuring compliance from software application operators with existing regulations. The act is set to take effect in the 2025-2026 school year, with immediate effect possible if it receives a two-thirds vote from both houses.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 32.1021 (Education Code 32)
Senate Committee Report: Education Code 32.1021 (Education Code 32)
Engrossed: Education Code 32.1021 (Education Code 32)
House Committee Report: Education Code 32.1021 (Education Code 32)