Rep. Lipps Announces House Approval of the Ohio Anti-Bullying and Hazing Act

COLUMBUS—State Representative Scott Lipps (R-Franklin) today announced that the Ohio House has approved legislation that works to prevent school place bullying, also known as the Ohio Anti-Bullying and Hazing Act.

House Bill 360, sponsored by Rep. Dave Greenspan (R-Westlake), strengthens consequences for bullying in public schools. Under the bill, there are more parameters for in-school suspensions, and it gives school districts greater flexibility regarding investigations and how to best conduct them within the district or school.

The bill applies to public school students in grades 4 through 12 only and exempts students with developmental disabilities.

“In passing House Bill 360, the Ohio House took an important step to address school bullying. Every week, we hear tragic stories of children struggling with the cruelties and realities of being bullied,” said Lipps. “With the last name Lipps, I too was bullied in school. I am proud to be a cosponsor of this important legislation for our kids and our future.”

The legislation also makes permissive the following requirements:
• Mandatory community service for suspended or expelled students
• Tutoring and academic support provided by the school district for suspended or expelled students
• Counseling services provided by the school district for the offender and for the victim of the harassment or bullying, with parental consent
• Flexibility for school districts to go beyond these permissive requirements for suspensions and expulsions of students at the determination of the local school board

House Bill 360 now awaits consideration by the Ohio Senate.