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H 4653

An Act protecting public higher education student information

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Moran

Bill H 4653 protects student privacy at Massachusetts public colleges by limiting education record disclosures, while allowing access for government agencies when needed.

Read second and ordered to a third reading
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Bill Summary · H 4653

Summary of Bill H 4653: An Act Protecting Public Higher Education Student Information

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 4653 aims to enhance the privacy protections of student information at public colleges and universities in Massachusetts. The legislation seeks to clarify the obligations of these institutions regarding the disclosure of education records, aligning with the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

Key Provisions

  • Amendment to Chapter 66: The bill proposes the addition of a new section (Section 22) to Chapter 66 of the General Laws.
  • Exemption from Disclosure: Public colleges and universities will not be required to produce records classified as education records under FERPA, including those designated as directory information.
  • Exceptions: The exemption does not apply to requests made by federal, state, or municipal agencies, ensuring that these entities can still access necessary information for regulatory or oversight purposes.

Affected Parties

  • Public Colleges and Universities: The primary entities impacted by this bill are public higher education institutions in Massachusetts, which will have more discretion over the release of student information.
  • Students: The legislation is designed to protect the privacy of students, ensuring that their educational records are not disclosed without their consent, except in specified circumstances.
  • Government Agencies: Federal, state, and municipal agencies will retain their ability to request and obtain education records when necessary.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: October 27, 2025
  • Committee Review: The bill was reported favorably by the committee on Higher Education on the same day it was introduced.
  • Subsequent Actions:
    • On November 13, 2025, the committee recommended that the bill be placed in the Orders of the Day for the next sitting.
    • Rules were suspended on the same day, and the bill was read a second time and ordered to a third reading.

Conclusion

Bill H 4653 represents a significant step in reinforcing the privacy rights of students in public higher education institutions in Massachusetts. By limiting the circumstances under which education records must be disclosed, the bill aims to foster a more secure environment for student information while maintaining necessary access for government oversight.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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