H.B. No. 641 - relating to digital citizenship instruction in public schools.

 

	89R2265 AMF-D
	By: González of El Paso	H.B. No. 641

	A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
	AN ACT
	relating to digital citizenship instruction in public schools.
	BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
	SECTION 1.  Section 28.002(z), Education Code, is amended to
	read as follows:
	(z)  The State Board of Education by rule shall require each
	school district to incorporate instruction in digital citizenship
	into the district's curriculum, including information regarding
	the potential criminal consequences of cyberbullying, and require
	students enrolled in grade level six to complete instruction in
	digital citizenship as part of the district's social studies
	curriculum. In this subsection:
	(1)  "Cyberbullying" has the meaning assigned by
	Section 37.0832.
	(2)  "Digital citizenship" means the standards of
	appropriate, responsible, and healthy online behavior, including:
	(A)  media literacy and the ability to identify
	credible sources of information, including by analyzing content
	created or modified by generative artificial intelligence
	technology, and to access, analyze, evaluate, create, and act on
	all forms of digital communication;
	(B)  digital ethics, etiquette, respectful
	discourse with people who have differing opinions, safety,
	security, digital footprint, and the identification of rhetoric
	that incites violence based on a person's race, religion, or
	political affiliation; and
	(C)  cyberbullying prevention and response.
	SECTION 2.  This Act applies beginning with the 2025-2026
	school year.
	SECTION 3.  This Act takes effect immediately if it receives
	a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as
	provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution.  If this
	Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this
	Act takes effect September 1, 2025.

Texas Legislature Online: HB 641.

Dear ChatGPT: What is digital citizenship?

Digital citizenship refers to the responsible use of technology and the internet. It involves understanding and practicing appropriate behavior, online safety, ethics, and engagement in the digital world. Being a good digital citizen means being respectful, kind, and aware of how your actions online affect others and the digital environment.

Key components of digital citizenship include:

1. Digital Etiquette: Understanding and practicing appropriate online behavior, such as using respectful language, avoiding cyberbullying, and being mindful of others' privacy.

2. Digital Security: Protecting personal information, using strong passwords, and being cautious about sharing details online to avoid identity theft or scams.

3. Digital Literacy: Understanding how to use technology and navigate digital tools effectively, such as being able to critically evaluate information found online.

4. Digital Rights and Responsibilities: Recognizing and respecting the rights of others in the digital space, such as intellectual property and freedom of expression, while also understanding the responsibilities that come with those rights.

5. Digital Health and Wellness: Balancing screen time with offline activities and being aware of the impact of technology on mental and physical well-being.

6. Digital Law: Understanding and abiding by the legal implications of digital actions, such as copyright laws, online harassment laws, and respecting the terms of service of websites and platforms.

In essence, digital citizenship promotes a positive, safe, and responsible online community.