MS HB790

Require public school districts and postsecondary educational institutions to install cloud-based video surveillance cameras equipped with audio in all classrooms, auditoriums, gymnasiums, cafeterias, corridors, and exterior areas, with signage indicating camera use.

Mandate parent notification before camera installation and at the beginning of each school year, with permission-based access granted to parents during regular operational hours.

Limit classroom camera use to monitoring instruction, classroom interactions, and teacher observation only; prohibit use for marketing purposes and restrict footage viewing to school board members, superintendents, principals, licensed personnel, and postsecondary institution leadership.

Require surveillance footage retention for 90 days unless extended retention is necessary for investigations, disciplinary actions, or litigation; establish procedures to protect student privacy and identity under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

Allow schools to contract with outside companies for surveillance services through a competitive bidding process advertised in local newspapers for two successive weeks, with contracts awarded to the lowest qualified bid.