Oregon: Senate Approves Bullying Bill, Heads to Governor

The Oregon State Senate today strongly endorsed a proposal to strengthen Oregon’s anti-bullying law. In a 26 to 2 vote, the Senate approved the bill and sent it to the Governor’s desk.

“Bullying and harassment are far too common in Oregon schools,” said Dana Hepper of Stand for Children, who testified in favor of the bill at a hearing. “This proposal will help keep children safe.”

House Bill 2599 would ensure statewide adoption of anti-bullying and anti-harassment policies in public schools, create clear notice and complaint procedures and establish a comprehensive approach to address bullying. The proposal strengthens existing statute by clarifying the definition of bullying, adding specific guidelines, and encouraging training programs.

Over the past three months, legislators have listened to hours of testimony from youth with experiences of bullying and harassment in Oregon schools.

“I was constantly harassed in my high school in Gresham,” said Jory Card, in testimony before a Senate Committee. Card, now a student at the University of Oregon and a leader of the Oregon Student Equal Rights Alliance, added, “It got so bad that I had to avoid school activities to feel safe and I would beg my parents to excuse me from class.”

This legislation has the support of the Safe Schools for All Youth Coalition — a network of 40 Oregon youth and advocacy organizations, ranging from student groups to disability advocates to ethnic and immigrant associations to the gay and transgender community.

Jeana Frazzini, Executive Director of Basic Rights Oregon said, “More than 40% of Oregon students say they suffer at the hands of a bully in any given month. House Bill 2599 will give teachers, parents and students more tools to keep every student safe at school.”

The legislation passed the House on a 50 to 9 vote last month. Advocates say they are hopeful that the bill will receive the Governor’s support. If signed into law, the legislation would take effect on July 1, 2009, giving districts time to implement the law for the upcoming school year.