Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill amending the definition of bullying and the laws pertaining to bullying.

Highlights:

• Defines "bullying" as any written, verbal, or physical act, or any electronic communication, by a pupil, directed at one or more other pupils that is intended to harm 1 or more pupils either directly or indirectly by doing any of the following (Sec. 1310):
• Substantially interfering with educational opportunities, benefits, or programs of 1 or more pupils;
• Substantially and adversely affecting the ability of a pupil to participate in, or benefit from the school district's or public school's educational programs or activities by placing the pupil in reasonable fear of physical harm;
• Having an actual and substantial detrimental effect on a pupil's physical or mental health or causing substantial emotional distress; or
• Causing substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the school.

• Establishes protocol for contacting the parents or guardians of the victims of bullying, as well as the parents of the bully (Sec. 1310).

• Requires school districts to adopt a policy against bullying within 6 months (Sec. 1310).

• Requires school districts to provide at least 1 public hearing within 30 days of adopting a policy (Sec. 1310).

• Requires school districts to submit a report analyzing the results of an adopted policy within 1 year of enactment (Sec. 1310).

Full Bill Text