Technology

LB 31 requires Nebraska school districts to adopt policies governing the use of student monitoring and tracking technology (like digital hall passes, cameras, or anti-vaping devices) by May 2026. It mandates schools to inventory all such tools, disclose vendor details, costs, data practices, and privacy protections, and allow parents to opt their children out. The bill also requires schools to explain data sharing with law enforcement and ensure accommodations for students with disabilities. These policies must be posted online and align with a model policy developed by the State Board of Education by December 2025.

LB 140 requires Nebraska public school districts to adopt policies governing student use of electronic devices (like phones and tablets) on school property or during school activities. The policy must generally prohibit device use, except for specific exceptions: students' individualized education plans (IEPs), approved educational activities, emergencies, health monitoring, or school authorization. School boards must develop these policies with input from students, parents, and educators. The law takes effect before the 2025-26 school year and applies directly to all public school districts in Nebraska.

LB 241 (signed March 17, 2025) shields private businesses - including corporations, nonprofits, and other private entities - from class action lawsuits following cybersecurity events, unless the breach resulted from their willful, wanton, or gross negligence. The bill defines a "cybersecurity event" as unauthorized access or disruption of systems holding nonpublic information (like Social Security numbers or financial data) and clarifies that entities are not liable for such events under normal circumstances. It specifically exempts private entities from liability in class actions related to these incidents, focusing on preventing lawsuits for routine breaches rather than imposing new privacy requirements. This law directly affects businesses handling sensitive personal data by reducing legal risks from data breaches, provided they meet basic cybersecurity standards.