Minnesota Lawmakers Tackle Data Privacy in Classrooms

Lawmakers and data privacy advocates say the digital age means students’ private information needs to be protected. 

A group of legislators announced a new plan Wednesday to push measures this year protecting data on school-issued iPads and laptops. 

Rep. John Lesch and others say many parents are not aware that technology companies can use private information for marketing. 

Other legislation is in the works that would block third-party vendors from accessing troves of school district data on students. 

Another bill would ensure students’ personal cell phones and social media accounts aren’t inappropriately searched. 

The bills are part of a multi-state effort by the ACLU to get laws in line with the fast-moving technology. 

Minnesota is also struggling to regulate police use of body cameras and drones.