Bill > HR105

This resolution supports free and responsible scholastic journalism by addressing concerns about student media publication restrictions. The resolution highlights that the Department of Education's current Student Publication/Audio/Video Release Form may be incorrectly interpreted as requiring parental consent for publishing student names and photos in school-sponsored media. It references the Hawaii Student Journalism Protection Act, which protects student journalists' freedom of speech and press, and notes that the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) does not actually prohibit student journalists from publishing student information. The resolution requests that the Department of Education, by December 31, 2025, inform administrators that parent consent is not legally required for publishing student names and photos in school-sponsored media, revise the current release form to remove potentially misleading language, and update its website related to student privacy accordingly. The resolution aims to clarify misunderstandings about student media publication rights and support students' First Amendment rights in scholastic journalism, emphasizing that student journalists should follow professional ethical standards such as seeking truth, minimizing harm, acting independently, and being accountable.

Education, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HR&billnumber=105&year=2025