ATLANTA (AP) — Gov. Nathan Deal has signed an executive order implementing restrictions on a set of academic standards adopted by the state.

Deal said Wednesday he will prohibit certain student information from being gathered, although he acknowledged that data isn't currently being collected. Deal says his order ensures the standards don't violate anyone's rights.

The order comes amid growing debate over the Common Core standards that create basic requirements for math and English language arts. They are expected to be major topic at the state GOP convention this weekend. Critics say the standards amount to federal intrusion and threaten student privacy.

The standards have been embraced by dozens of states, which helped develop them under the leadership of the National Governors Association and the Council of Chief State School Officers.