Dayton Approves Tougher Anti-Bullying Law - Minnesota

[MineralMan]

http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2014/04/09/minnesota-house-passes-anti-bullying-bill/

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP/WCCO) — An anti-bullying law that replaces one some found too weak is now in place.
Gov. Mark Dayton used an outdoor ceremony Wednesday to sign a bill toughening Minnesota’s stand against bullying. The bill passed overnight after a protracted House debate.

Supporters say it will provide a safer learning environment for children. Critics argue it will subject more kids to punishment for expressing their religious beliefs or engaging in other youthful behavior.

The bill requires school districts to track and investigate cases of bullying and directs schools to better train staff and teachers on how to prevent it. Current law requires school districts to have a bullying policy but doesn’t include details on what the policy should contain.

Minnesota's Governor Dayton signed the new anti-bullying bill after it passed both houses of the state legislature. This bill was opposed mightily by Republicans, and a similar bill introduced when Republicans had the majority of both houses had failed to pass. IN 2012, Minnesota voters voted in Democratic (DFL) majorities in both houses, and this bill is just one result of those changes, along with our marriage equality law and other measures.

The bill specifically identifies groups of people who are likely to be subject to bullying in schools. Republicans were worried that the bill would end bullying of minorities, LGBT students, disabled people and others. Apparently, their religion encourages such bullying. How odd, eh?

[jwirr]

1. I am glad that he signed it. As for religious expression - that does not belong in a public school

in the first place. And when they saying it will keep them from engaging in other youthful behavior what are they talking about? That their children will not play a sport if they have to play with other children they do not like? The churches need to get back to making religion a personal issue and not trying to force it onto others.