HARTFORD – State Representative John Frey (R-111) this week supported important bi-partisan legislation to strengthen state anti-bullying law to include non-peer-to-peer interactions, and to expand the reporting requirements of school volunteers.
The legislation, HB-7215 - An Act Concerning Safe School Climate Policies - establishes an eight-member Social and Emotional Learning and School Climate Advisory Collaborative tasked with monitoring school climate improvement efforts in the state. The bill also modifies the definition of bullying by eliminating the requirement that the action occur between students; and extends the bullying reporting requirements to include school volunteers.
“Bullying is a serious issue that negatively impacts the mental health of everyone involved, and is extremely damaging to our community as a whole,” said Rep. Frey, a cosponsor of the bill. “We must continue to work together to make certain our children feel safe and secure in school and online, and I’m pleased this legislation will build upon previous law to strengthen protections for students and staff. Expanding the reporting requirements for cases of suspected bullying is a positive step toward eliminating abuse and increasing tolerance and respect.”
In July 2002, the Connecticut legislature passed a law, also sponsored by Rep. Frey, directing all public school districts to develop and implement a bullying policy.
“It’s important we also recognize the seriousness of our actions as adults and community leaders as we work toward increasing understanding and empathy among all groups,” Rep. Frey said. “No matter what legislation gets passed, it’s most important to lead by personal example and speak up when something isn’t right. When we stand up to bullying behavior we not only help the victim at that moment, we also empower the community.”