The bill, S.B. No. 2787, aims to enhance digital citizenship and media literacy instruction in Texas public schools while establishing a public school policy regarding Internet safety. It introduces a new section, 28.00215, to the Education Code, mandating that the State Board of Education require school districts to incorporate digital citizenship instruction into their curricula. This instruction will cover topics such as the consequences of cyberbullying, the effects of social media on mental health, and how to identify credible sources of information. Additionally, students in grades 6 through 12 will be required to complete media literacy instruction as part of their foundation curriculum. School districts must also make curriculum materials available online and notify parents of their availability.

Furthermore, the bill adds Section 38.0233 to the Education Code, which requires school districts and open-enrollment charter schools to adopt an Internet safety policy. This policy must ensure that students have limited access to age-appropriate materials and protect them while using digital communication tools. It also prohibits access to illegal activities and personal information collection without instructional purpose. The bill repeals Section 28.002(z) and specifies that the new provisions will take effect in the 2026-2027 school year for digital citizenship and media literacy, and in the 2025-2026 school year for the Internet safety policy.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 28.002 (Education Code 28)