Bill > H4405

This bill establishes comprehensive data privacy protections for students and educators in K-12 schools in Massachusetts. The legislation defines key terms like "covered information" (which includes personally identifiable student and educator data such as names, addresses, grades, health records, and online identifiers) and establishes strict rules for operators of online services and applications used in schools. Operators are prohibited from engaging in targeted advertising, selling or renting student information, using data to create profiles, or disclosing covered information without specific exceptions. The bill requires operators to implement reasonable security procedures, protect data privacy, and destroy information when no longer needed. Educational entities must develop detailed privacy and security policies, publicly list the types of information they collect, and provide annual data privacy training to employees. The legislation also creates a chief privacy officer position within the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to oversee implementation, develop model policies, and provide guidance and support. Operators who violate these provisions can face civil actions with potential damages up to $10,000 per violation and may be barred from accessing student and educator evaluation records for up to five years. The bill aims to protect student and educator privacy while allowing necessary data use for educational purposes.

Budget and Finance

Committee on Education (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4405