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On February 1, 2026, Missouri Governor John Smith signed a new education law aimed at enhancing student privacy protection in the state. The law, known as the Student Data Privacy Act, seeks to safeguard student data and ensure that it is used responsibly by educational institutions and technology providers.Under the new law, schools and technology vendors will be required to obtain parental consent before collecting any personal data from students. This includes information such as names, addresses, birth dates, and social security numbers. The law also prohibits the sale of student data to third parties without explicit consent.In addition, the Student Data Privacy Act mandates that schools implement robust data security measures to protect student information from unauthorized access or disclosure. This includes encryption protocols, secure storage practices, and regular audits to ensure compliance with the law.Governor Smith emphasized the importance of safeguarding student data in an increasingly digital world. He said, "Our children's privacy must be protected as they navigate the digital landscape. This law will give parents peace of mind knowing that their children's personal information is secure and used responsibly by schools and technology vendors."The new law comes in response to growing concerns about data privacy in education, particularly with the rise of online learning platforms and educational technology tools. Advocates for student privacy have hailed the legislation as a major step forward in protecting the rights of young learners.The Student Data Privacy Act will go into effect immediately, with schools and technology providers given a grace period to ensure compliance with the new requirements. Violations of the law will result in fines and potential legal action.Overall, the new education law signals Missouri's commitment to upholding student privacy rights and ensuring that all children have a safe and secure learning environment. It represents a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to protect student data in the digital age.