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Bill

SB 1298

Relating to instruction in online safety for minors provided in public schools and by the Department of Public Safety.

89th Legislature (2025)

SB 1298 requires Texas public schools to teach online safety to minors using curriculum standards developed by the Department of Public Safety.

Referred to Education K-16
#education #stateboardof(v0086) #education--primary&secondary--curriculum(i0228) #education--primary&secondary--general(i0230) #electronicinformationsystems(i0311) #internet(s0130) #minors--health&safety(i0533) #publicsafety #departmentof(v0251) #protectionofpersonalinformation(i0003) #science&technology(i0751)
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Bill Summary · SB 1298

Legislative bill overview

SB 1298 mandates that Texas public schools provide instruction on online safety for minors and designates the Department of Public Safety to develop curriculum standards or guidelines for this education. The bill appears to create a coordinated framework between schools and state law enforcement to teach students about internet-related risks and responsible digital citizenship.

Why is this important

Online safety education addresses real harms minors face, including cyberbullying, predatory behavior, identity theft, and exposure to explicit content. With digital engagement increasingly central to adolescent life, establishing standardized educational approaches could help reduce vulnerability to these threats and promote safer online practices statewide.

Potential points of contention

  • Curriculum control and scope: Disagreement over whether the Department of Public Safety or school districts should determine specific content, emphasis areas, and age-appropriate messaging
  • Implementation burden and resources: Schools may argue they lack funding and teacher training capacity to add new mandatory coursework without additional state support
  • Content concerns: Stakeholders may dispute whether instruction should emphasize protection/avoidance versus digital literacy, privacy advocacy, or law enforcement perspectives on crimes

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

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