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Bill introduced to require parent notification in serious bullying incidents
Summary
RS 32019, sponsored by Representative Chris Mathias, would require schools to adopt policies to notify families when a bullying incident meets a serious threshold (defined in testimony as when it results in suspension); the committee approved introduction.
BOISE, Jan. 23, 2025 — Representative Chris Mathias introduced RS 32019, a follow‑up to work begun in last year’s House Bill 539, that would require school districts to adopt policies to notify parents or guardians when a bullying incident rises to a defined threshold of seriousness.
Mathias said the working group defined a “serious” bullying incident as one that results in a student suspension and that the RS would require schools to ensure families of both the alleged aggressor and alleged victim receive notification under those circumstances. He described the measure as narrower than last year’s proposal and intended to make notifications more actionable for families.
Representative Ehart and others said they supported the goal but asked about consequences for students who bully and whether the RS does enough to address repercussions. Mathias said the draft includes a provision (lines 34–35) intended to provide legal recourse in the most serious, potentially criminal instances, and he welcomed further discussion on disciplinary response at the bill hearing.
Representative Garner moved to introduce RS 32019; the committee approved the motion by voice vote.
Why it matters: Sponsors said the change would ensure parents are informed when incidents reach a suspension‑level severity, enabling families to take steps to address repeated or serious conduct. Committee members signaled interest in further discussion about disciplinary responses and supports for victims and alleged aggressors.
