"Vague" Anti-Bullying Bill Moves Forward

House Bill 1422 sailed through the House of Representatives this week with a vote of 86-5. The Bill would allow emergency school transfers for students who are the victims of bullying. State Representative Tommy Hardin is the author, "I did some research  into the laws on bullying and was surprised to find for emergency transfers bullying wasn't included." Hardin said.
Most think the bill is a great way to protect victims, "On the surface it seems like a great idea," Parent Genie Baumann said. But some think it does not address the true issue of bullying, "I think the schools should be more focused on the bullying itself in schools instead of just moving the victim," Baumann added.
It's something Representative Joe Dorman agrees with, he's one of 5 who voted against the bill, "I was shocked it wasn't debated about more," Dorman said.
Dorman fears this is sending the wrong message to kids, by making the bully victim change schools, "It certainly sends the wrong message," Dorman added. He also fears the bills wording, which he calls vague, might lead to some taking advantage, "That does create problems with a school possibly recruiting an athlete or someone who might  be a valedictorian to boost academic numbers," Dorman said.
The bill now moves onto the Senate, where it's writer has confidence it will pass, Dorman hopes it's amended first. "A student leaving the situation, the one who is being bullied, it certainly sends the wrong message." Dorman said.
Mark Taylor
Fox 25 News
MeTaylor@okcfox.com"Vague" Anti-Bullying Bill Moves Forward

Posted: Tuesday, February 26 2013, 09:34 PM CST