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Bill

AB 1401

Pupil records: parental access.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Patterson

AB 1401 proposed to modify parental access to California pupil records but failed committee passage and was dismissed in May 2025.

From committee: Without further action pursuant to Joint Rule 62(a).
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Bill Summary · AB 1401

Legislative bill overview

AB 1401 addresses parental access to pupil records in California schools. The bill was introduced by Sponsor Joe Patterson and referred to the Education Committee and Public and Consumer Protection Committee in March 2025. The measure failed passage in committee on April 9, 2025, and was subsequently dismissed without further action on May 13, 2025.

Why this is important

Parental access to student records is a significant education policy issue that affects transparency, parental involvement in their children's schooling, and the balance between privacy protections and parental rights. The specifics of what records parents can access, when, and under what conditions shape how schools manage student information and parental communication.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of access: Disagreement over which records parents should access (disciplinary files, mental health notes, counselor communications, grades, etc.) and whether some sensitive information should be restricted
  • Privacy and safety concerns: Tension between parental rights and protecting student privacy, particularly for older students, LGBTQ+ youth, or students in sensitive situations
  • Implementation burden: Concerns about the administrative costs and operational impact on schools required to manage expanded or modified parental record access procedures

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

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