Legislature tightens schools' anti-bullying policies

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — The Missouri Legislature has voted to tighten the standards for school districts’ anti-bullying policies.

The House voted 124-27 Tuesday to set a timeline for school officials to investigate reports of bullying. The Senate passed the bill Monday on a 31-0 vote, and it now goes to the governor.

The legislation requires school districts to outline procedures for reporting bullying. The districts’ policies would, at minimum, require officials to begin investigating a report of bullying within two school days. The measure calls for bullying investigations to conclude within 10 days.

The legislation also outlines staff training on how to teach students about bullying.

Bill sponsor Rep. Sue Allen said some districts’ weak bullying policies have failed to protect students.