HI HB2071

Establishes six fundamental student rights for public school students: safe and secure schools, proper nutrition during lunch, quality education, high-quality teaching systems, minimum 180 instructional days per year, and independent student representation in collective bargaining negotiations.

Creates the position of independent special master, jointly appointed by the Speaker of the House and Senate President for two-year terms (maximum two consecutive terms), to monitor the Department of Education's compliance with student rights.

Requires the special master to issue an annual "Student Rights Report Card" grading the Department of Education on each student right using an A-F scale with specific comments and recommendations.

Mandates the special master to conduct a funding and resources adequacy study every five years and submit written reports to the Governor and Legislature before each legislative session.

Provides the special master access to all Department of Education personnel, data, and records necessary to perform duties; compensation is unpaid but includes reimbursement for reasonable expenses.