Bill > HB599

This bill revises Montana law to strengthen parental rights regarding student data collection, health screenings, and educational information. It expands parents' ability to control their children's educational and health-related data by providing explicit opt-out and opt-in options for school surveys, evaluations, and data collection. Parents must now be notified and can consent before personally identifiable information is collected, and they have the right to opt out of non-essential data gathering. The bill requires schools to promptly notify parents about physical and mental health surveys or screenings and to share any resulting concerns. It also reinforces existing protections that prevent government entities from interfering with parental rights without demonstrating a compelling governmental interest and using the least restrictive means. The law defines key terms like "government entity" and "education record" and allows parents to take legal action if they believe their fundamental rights have been violated, with the potential to recover attorney fees if they prevail. Importantly, the bill emphasizes that parents have exclusive rights to direct their children's education, healthcare, and upbringing, with specific provisions about accessing records, making healthcare decisions, and controlling data collection.

Education

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC3016