Bill > HB2890

This bill modifies existing Oklahoma law regarding electronic communication between school personnel and students by introducing an opt-out provision for parents or legal guardians. The bill expands the definition of "electronic or digital communication" to include various digital messaging platforms and requires school personnel to include parents or legal guardians in such communications, with two key exceptions: communications using school-approved platforms related to academic matters, and situations where parents have specifically opted out of being included. The bill also mandates that schools provide training on these communication requirements and establishes a disciplinary process for personnel who violate the communication guidelines. If a violation is investigated and misconduct is found, school personnel may face discipline up to termination and potential law enforcement reporting. The bill will become effective on July 1, 2025, and contains an emergency clause suggesting its immediate importance for public safety and education. The primary goal appears to be increasing transparency and parental oversight of digital communications between school staff and students while providing flexibility through the opt-out mechanism.

Education

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb2890&Session=2600