Technology

HB 1346 changes Oklahoma law by replacing the term "child pornography" with "child sexual abuse material" in all relevant statutes. It requires commercial entities (like websites or platforms) to implement "reasonable age verification methods" to prevent minors from accessing harmful online content, and holds these entities liable for civil damages if they knowingly publish or distribute such material. The bill directly affects online platforms and commercial entities hosting content, adding new civil liability standards without creating new criminal penalties. Key provisions define terms like "age verification methods" and "harmful to minors" to clarify enforcement.

HB 1982 updates Oklahoma school contracting rules for electronic educational materials. It requires vendors to guarantee materials are ready for immediate use at delivery, provide free replacements for defects within seven days, and supply updates/support within seven days of a school's notification. The bill also mandates that electronic files for textbooks must be in formats compatible with federal accessibility standards (like Braille conversion), ensuring materials can be adapted for students with disabilities. These rules apply to digital textbooks, software, and online learning tools purchased by school districts, effective July 1, 2025.

HB 1983 requires Oklahoma public schools to teach media literacy and cybersecurity to students in sixth, seventh, or eighth grade starting in the 2027-2028 school year. It mandates a half-unit course covering specific topics like identifying online scams, fake news, deepfakes, password security, and protecting personal information. The State Department of Education must develop curriculum standards, guidelines, teacher training, and accessible resources to support this instruction, including accommodations for English learners and students with disabilities. The bill becomes effective November 1, 2025, with implementation beginning for incoming sixth graders in 2027.