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Committee introduces RS32019 to require parental notification for serious bullying incidents resulting in suspension
Summary
Rep. Chris Mathias introduced RS32019 to require schools to notify families when bullying incidents lead to suspension; the committee voted to introduce the RS for further consideration.
Representative Chris Mathias told the committee RS32019 would refine reporting requirements so that families involved in serious bullying incidents — defined in the RS as incidents resulting in suspension — receive school notification policies that the district must implement.
Mathias said the intent is narrower than prior legislation that would have required sending detailed reports home every time bullying occurred. “It would ensure that the families who are involved in serious incidents of bullying as defined by it resulted in suspension… the schools just need to have a policy for notifying the parents involved,” Mathias said.
Rep. Ehart and others expressed interest in follow-up discussion about consequences for students who bully and whether existing disciplinary practices produce adequate deterrent effect. Mathias pointed to lines 34–35 of the draft as offering legal resources or recourse in the most serious, potentially criminal cases, and said he was open to further conversation about broader consequences.
Representative Garner moved to introduce RS32019; the committee approved the motion by voice vote and the RS will be scheduled for a full hearing.
