Bill > HB2696

This bill amends Oklahoma's Open Records Act to enhance parents' and adult students' access to educational records by requiring public educational institutions to release all requested student records to parents, guardians, or the student themselves if they are 18 or older. The bill mandates that these records must be provided in a timely manner, free of charge, and without redacting information unless doing so would violate the law. The records covered are comprehensive, including personal communications, Individualized Education Program (IEP) documents, disciplinary records, school staff correspondence, student-teacher meeting notes, student athlete contracts, progress reports, and internal recommendations. Previously, educational institutions could keep many student records confidential, but this bill broadens transparency by ensuring parents and eligible students can obtain a wide range of documents related to a student's educational experience. The law will take effect on November 1, 2025, giving schools time to prepare for the new record-sharing requirements. The bill aims to provide parents and students with more comprehensive access to educational information while maintaining protections against inappropriate disclosure.

Education

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb2696&Session=2600