Bill > SB223

This bill establishes new provisions governing student surveys in Missouri schools, requiring schools to provide parents with extensive protections and notification rights regarding surveys that touch on sensitive topics. Specifically, the bill mandates that schools must notify parents at least 24 hours before administering a survey and disclose the full survey contents if the survey asks questions about eight protected categories, including political beliefs, mental health, sexual behavior, illegal activities, family relationships, religious practices, and income. The bill defines key terms like "parent" and "survey" and applies to any school receiving state funding. Parents must provide written consent for such surveys, and the survey information can be posted on the school's website. The bill also provides enforcement mechanisms, allowing the attorney general, prosecuting attorney, or parents themselves to bring civil actions, including seeking injunctive relief or damages, against school personnel who violate these provisions. Notably, if a parent prevails in such a lawsuit, the court may award court costs, attorney's fees, and other appropriate damages. This legislation aims to give parents more control and transparency regarding sensitive survey content administered to their children in schools.

Government Affairs

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=438