The bill, introduced by Senator Menendez, aims to enhance digital citizenship and media literacy instruction in Texas public schools while establishing a public school policy regarding Internet safety. It amends the Education Code by adding Section 28.00215, which mandates 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 introduces Section 38.0233, which requires school districts and open-enrollment charter schools to adopt an Internet safety policy to protect students accessing the Internet on school networks or devices. This policy must include measures to limit access to age-appropriate materials, protect students using electronic communication, and prohibit access to illegal activities and personal information collection. 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)