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House gives final OK to expand bullying rules

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

(Updated 11:25 pm)

By Gary D. Robertson
Associated Press

RALEIGH — The General Assembly has narrowly voted to require all North Carolina public school districts to set forth bullying rules that identify potential targets, including gays and lesbians.

Gov. Bev Perdue's office also said Tuesday she probably will sign the bill approved earlier by the House by a vote of 58-57.

The bill would require schools to create policies by the end of the year that at a minimum list perceived characteristics of a person likely to be bullied. That list includes race, religion and physical appearance, as well as sexual orientation and gender identity.

There are 11 states that already have laws on the books designed to protect gay, lesbian and bisexual and transgender students from bullying.

The bill was passed after several amendments were rejected.

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Bloviator

June 23, 2009 - 7:21 pm EDT

So we are going to stereotype the types of people who get bullied?

bcparsons

June 24, 2009 - 5:12 am EDT

unfortunately the bullies have already stereotyped the people they bully.

mamaboilermaker

June 24, 2009 - 6:44 am EDT

Wouldn't expulsion of bullies be more effective than making a list of people who might get bullied? I would say that it's fairly simple--people bully people that they expect won't/can't fight back. Do we really need legislators to tell us that? Make expulsion easier and kids in schools will be safer. Of course, many will be concerned for the poor bully out on the street, but priority one is the safety of students who want to learn and obey the rules. Those of us out of school have more tools for dealing with bullies--life experience, concealed-carry, security systems, and just the ability to avoid unsafe people. Kids in school are stuck in rooms all day with a few kids who are too dangerous to be permitted to stay.