Senator Jones Stands Against Bullying

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Today, Illinois State Senator Emil Jones III (D-Chicago) passed House Bill 3281 which gives schools the authorization to suspend a student who bullies another student via cell phone or the internet.

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“There have been many instances were a student has circulated text messages and emails that caused students to inflict harm to themselves or others,” Jones said. “This legislation attempts to put an end to this deceitful conduct and foster safer school communities.”

HB 3281 stems from incidents were students post messages online with the intent of harassing classmates. Currently students can only be expelled for cases or electronic bullying and this measure includes suspension as a potential punishment for less server incidents.

Statistics show that with the influx of technology internet bullying permeates in schools throughout Illinois.

“This legislation will give students a chance to consider the effects their words have on their classmates,” Jones said. “I hope that this measure will help facilitate conversation to put an end to e-bullying and create safer environments for our students and staff.”

HB 3360 now goes to the House for further consideration

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