MN SF979

Requires school districts to obtain prior written informed consent from parents or guardians before administering surveys or similar instruments that solicit information about students or families regarding eight specified sensitive topics.

Sensitive topics requiring parental consent include political affiliations, mental or psychological problems, sexual behavior or attitudes, illegal or demeaning behavior, critical appraisals of family members, privileged relationships, religious practices, and income-related information.

School districts must make survey instruments readily accessible to parents at a convenient location and reasonable time, and specifically identify what sensitive information will be solicited.

Districts must request parental consent at least 14 days before administering the instrument.

Parents or guardians may use civil remedies under Minnesota Statutes section 13.08, subdivision 4, to compel compliance with these requirements.