Cyber bullying bill earns Senate support
February 15th, 2012
SB 1555 requires schools to develop policies prohibiting intimidation
SALEM – Legislation that would put Oregon amongst the leading states that have proactive school policies regarding bullying and cyber bullying was approved in the Oregon Senate this morning. Introduced by Senator Joanne Verger (D-District 5), SB 1555 defines “cyber bullying” and directs school districts to come up with specific policies to deal with this troubling issue affecting Oregon youth.
“With modern technology, cyber bullying can lead to non-stop harassment for some children, during school hours and after,” said Verger, who carried the bill on the floor. “Senate Bill 1555 would create an active approach to limiting the pain and suffering associated with cyber bullying that reach into the real world.”
Earlier this week in the Senate Education and Workforce Development Committee, Verger was joined in her testimony by students from across the state. One 15-year old Oregonian who recounted her experiences as a bullying victim gave very compelling testimony until she broke down in tears. Lincoln High School’s student leadership team also spoke, explaining their work to train staff about best practices for anti-bullying classroom environments, developing anti-bullying curriculum, peer mediation, and researching best practices for student led anti-bullying efforts.
“Students across the state are taking the lead on addressing cyber bullying but the Legislature needs to back them up. SB 1555 will help ensure students have safe learning environments in Oregon,” said Verger.
SB 1555 requires school employers to act as mandatory reporters of harassment, including cyber bullying. It also allows a student to report bullying anonymously to a mandatory reporter. The National Crime Prevention Council reports that bullying is a problem that affects half of all American teenagers.
The bill now goes to the House for consideration.
