Bill > HB641

This bill requires Texas school districts to incorporate digital citizenship instruction into their curriculum, specifically mandating that sixth-grade students complete this instruction as part of their social studies curriculum. The bill expands the definition of digital citizenship to include three key areas: (1) media literacy and the ability to identify credible information sources, including recognizing content created by artificial intelligence, (2) digital ethics, online etiquette, respectful discourse, personal safety, understanding digital footprints, and identifying rhetoric that might incite violence based on race, religion, or political affiliation, and (3) cyberbullying prevention and response. The State Board of Education will be responsible for establishing rules that require districts to provide this instruction, which aims to help students develop responsible and healthy online behaviors. The bill will take effect for the 2025-2026 school year, with immediate implementation possible if it receives a two-thirds vote from the Texas legislature.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB641