Schools would investigate bullying incidents and update families

If enacted, school policies would have to require prompt investigation of all incidents of alleged bullying and cyberbullying, and include a procedure for investigating reports. The requirement applies to school entities and nonpublic schools. The act would take effect 60 days after enactment.

If enacted, schools would have to use a process to protect students’ safety, well-being, and learning during investigations and after decisions. The process covers all students involved in a bullying or cyberbullying allegation. The act would take effect 60 days after enactment.

If enacted, schools would have to notify students and families when they determine that bullying or cyberbullying occurred. The notice covers students involved in the incident and their parents or legal guardians. Notice must go to each student involved and that student’s parent or legal guardian. Schools would have to give notice immediately, as soon as practicable, after making the determination. The act would take effect 60 days after enactment.

If enacted, school entities and nonpublic schools would have to make their policies available and review them; school entities would also send the state a policy copy each year. These provisions apply to school entities and nonpublic schools; only school entities must send an annual copy to the Department of Education. Policies must be posted on public websites, if available, in classrooms, and in prominent places in school buildings. The annual state report must include information about prevention, intervention, and education programs. Schools would review policies with those groups within 90 days after adoption and at least once each school year, and review policies every three years. School entities would report annually. The act would take effect 60 days after enactment.