SC S0840

Establishes parents' fundamental right to direct their child's upbringing, education, healthcare, and mental health, requiring the state to meet strict scrutiny before burdening these rights.

Requires parental consent before schools provide instruction on gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, or gender roles, with at least five days' advance notice.

Prohibits school employees from encouraging children to withhold information from parents or withholding information about a child's physical, emotional, or mental health, including requests to be treated inconsistently with the child's sex.

Requires parental consent before collecting biometric data, DNA, or making video/voice recordings of children, with exceptions for law enforcement, security surveillance, and emergencies.

Creates an administrative complaint process through school boards and the State Board of Education, followed by a private right of action in circuit court with potential recovery of $5,000 per violation in liquidated damages, up to $100,000 in noneconomic damages for intentional violations, and attorney's fees.