In cyberspace, bullies don’t even have to be present to torment their victims. In some cases, cyberbullying has even led to suicide. Justin Patchin with the Cyberbullying Research Center says students have the right to learn in a safe environment and California’s new law gives school officials the authority to take action.
"Cyberbullying is the kind of thing, as people know, that crosses from the school into the home, into the community, and so it really necessitates a coordinated kind of response by all parties involved."
~ Justin Patchin, Cyberbullying Research Center
Most school anti-bullying rules are based on traditional bullying like physical and verbal abuse, where victim and tormentor are both present.
The new law covers anything a student can do on-line no matter where they are. California is one of 12 states to have passed similar laws.
View a video of Patchin summarizing cyber bullying.
More New Laws
New Workplace Protections for Domestic Violence, Stalking, Sexual Abuse Victims
Monday, January 06, 2014Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking in California no longer have to worry about being fired or discriminated against at their workplace under a new state law now in effect.
New Laws 2014 Interactive Graphic
Monday, January 06, 2014With all the new laws taking effect in California this year we wanted a quick and fun way to share the stories with our listeners. Explore the new legislation from teen drivers to immigration within this interactive graphic.
California Children Can Now Have More Than Two Legal Parents
Friday, January 03, 2014Children in California can now have more than two legal parents.
Divisions Persist As New Calif. Transgender Law Takes Effect
Friday, January 03, 2014A sixteen-year-old California student was a driving force behind a new state law aimed at improving school for transgender students.
Hard Liquor Tastings, Beer Growler Refills Now Legal in California
Thursday, January 02, 2014Craft breweries and liquor distillers in California could get shots of new business as a result of two new state laws taking effect in 2014 - and beer and liquor drinkers will likely be happy as well.