The new law would target public schools and colleges, requiring anti-bullying language in codes of conduct
Stella Serpa speaks about how she was tormented as a young girl by classmates during a press conference today to unveil the "Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights" designed to combat harassment, intimidation and bullying among students.TRENTON — New Jersey lawmakers have introduced a bill to toughen the state's anti-bullying laws after the widely publicized suicide of a Rutgers University student.
A bipartisan group of lawmakers touted the "anti-bullying bill of rights" targeting public schools and colleges.
It would require K-12 districts to establish anti-bullying programs and require training for teachers and staff in suicide prevention and dealing with bullying. Public colleges and universities would need anti-bullying language in their codes of conduct.
New Jersey became one of the first states to pass a school bullying law in 2002. But its sponsors say it didn't go far enough.
Rutgers freshman Tyler Clementi committed suicide last month after authorities say his roommate secretly webcast his tryst with a man.
Previous coverage:
• In wake of Tyler Clementi suicide, Facebook teams with support groups to combat cyberbullying
• Rutgers hosts community meeting to discuss Tyler Clementi tragedy, bullying problem