The state House tentatively passed legislation tonight that would create an anti-bullying policy for schools that pays particular attention to kids who experts say are typical targets.
Much of the debate over the bill, which passed by a 72-45 vote, centered on language stating that school officials have to be concerned about students who are more likely to be victims because of real or perceived characteristics of "gender, gender identity or expression, physical appearance, (or) sexual orientation," Dan Kane reports.
Some argued that the language is an attempt to create special protections for gays and lesbians. Advocates said the language only points out those who are likely targeted and does not designate them as a protected class.
The legislation needs a second vote in the House before it can move to the Senate.
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Re: A bully bill
As promised, the votes against H.B. 1366 on May 23, 2007:
Almond, Avila, Blackwood, Blust, Boylan, Brisson, Brown, Brubaker, Clary, Cleveland, Current, Daughtridge, Daughtry, Dockham, Dollar, Folwell, Frye, Gillespie, Hilton, Holloway, Holmes, Howard, Johnston, Justus, Killian, Kiser, Langdon, Lewis, McComas, McElraft, McGee, Moore, Neumann, Pate, Samuelson, Spear, Stam, Starnes, Steen, Stiller, Sutton, Tillis, Walend, Walker, West.
Excused: Jones
Not Voting: Hackney, Crawford
Not sure who these folks are? Check here.
— RTB