HB1019 Summary

• Requires public schools to install video cameras in self-contained special education classrooms upon written request by parents, guardians, school employees, superintendents, principals, or board members.

• Video cameras must monitor all classroom areas including attached rooms used for time-outs, record audio, but cannot monitor restroom interiors or clothing change areas; incidental recordings of these spaces must be redacted or segregated.

• Schools must retain video recordings for at least 30 days; if a viewing request is made, retention continues until the person views the recording and all investigations and legal proceedings are completed.

• Video access is limited to school employees involved in or investigating alleged incidents, ethics investigators, child maltreatment investigators, and law enforcement officers; cameras cannot be used for teacher evaluations or continuous monitoring.

• Schools must begin camera operation within 10 school days (if requested during summer) or within 45 school days of receiving a request; the Commissioner of Education may grant extensions in unusual circumstances, and the Department of Education shall collect data on requests and authorizations.