ATLANTA – The Georgia House of Representatives today passed Senate Bill 250 by a vote of 119 to 45. This legislation was amended by state Representative Mike Jacobs (R-Atlanta) to include measures that will expand and clarify the definition of “bullying” in Georgia public schools. The amendment also allows corrective action to be taken in any grade level and requires the Department of Education to develop a model bullying policy for its member schools.“Georgia’s current laws governing bullying in public schools are bare bones and inadequate,” said Representative Jacobs. “We must protect Georgia’s children and ensure they are in a safe environment where they can focus on their education.”
The language in the amendment to SB 250 was originally part of House Bill 927, which did not pass in time for the legislative day 30 deadline for bills to clear the chamber they originated in, also known as Crossover Day. Representative Jacobs was urged to introduce HB 927 after learning of a tragic incident in DeKalb County involving the suicide of an 11-year-old child who was the victim of school bullying.
“I’m pleased that the House voted today to give schools, educators, and parents more resources to address bullying problems in our schools,” said Representative Jacobs.
In addition to the measures included in Representative Jacobs’ amendment, SB 250 also clarifies current laws dealing with disruption of the operation of Georgia public schools. Specifically the bill states that any person who “knowingly and intentionally or recklessly” disrupts or interferes with a public school, public school bus or bus stop shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
A link to SB 250 can be found by clicking here. The bill will now go back to the Senate for consideration.
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Representative Mike Jacobs represents the citizens of District 80, which includes portions of DeKalb County. He was elected into the House of Representatives in 2004, and currently serves as the Vice-Chairman of the Judiciary Committee. He also serves on the Insurance, MARTOC, and Rules Committees.