Politics & Government

Governor Signs Local Bill Into Law to Allow Suspension, Expulsion for Cyber-Bullying

Assembly Bill 256 authorizes superintendents and school principals to discipline students who engage in cyber bullying, harassment by electronic means-- on or off the school campus.

Governor Jerry Brown has signed a local lawmaker's bill, allowing for more disciplinary actions to be taken by schools when bullying is present-- either on or off the campus.

Brown signed AB 256 goes into effect in January and updates current anti-bullying statutes, according to the office of Assemblywoman Cristina Garcia (D- Bell Gardens). 

Garcia, who represents both Cerritos and Artesia in California's 58th Assembly District, said the law applies when students use computers, smartphones and social media to perpetuate harassing and threatening behavior while away from the school campus.

"Once cyber-bullying is discovered in a text, email, or in any form, this law will give school officials the tools to pursue bullies and protect the well-being of our students.” Garcia said.

According to the assemblymember's office, current law only allows for disciplinary action to be taken on students in grades four through 12 when the bullying takes places on campus, when traveling to and from school, or when students are at a sponsored activities.   With AB 256, superintendents and principals can take necessary steps like suspending or expelling those who cyber-bully others. 

[Related: Read full text of the bill here.]

"AB 256 closes a large loophole in anti-bullying law to match the reality we live in today by updating laws written before the explosive growth of electronic devices and instant communication,” said Garcia. “By supporting this bill, the Governor and the Legislature have made a clear statement that student bullying is unacceptable and that it will not be tolerated in any way, shape or form."





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