Tuesday, March 06, 2001, 12:00 a.m. Pacific Anti-bullying bill targets harassment in schools
by Tan Vinh
Seattle Times staff reporter In Washington state, school violence is such a major concern that Gov. Gary Locke and other top officials are pushing an anti-bullying bill in hopes of heading off harassment incidents that could lead to school shootings. The San Diego shooting underscores why that sort of legislation is needed, said Rosemary McAuliff, chairwoman of the state Senate Education Committee and one of the bill's sponsors. "One of the pieces we found in many of these shootings is that the students felt alienated. I think it's important that we develop a climate that is zero tolerant of harassment," said McAuliffe, D-Bothell. Under the bill, each school district would be required to outline its anti-bullying policy to the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction by Sept. 1, 2002. The policies would include systems for reporting and investigating all complaints, and districts would be required to provide training to school employees and volunteers who have "significant contact" with students. The idea would be to catch the early signs of harassment before they lead to more serious trouble. Locke proposes to spend $500,000 to help school districts implement the new policies. The bill is sponsored by McAuliffe and Reps. Ed Murray, D-Seattle, and Ida Ballasiotes, R-Mercer Island. If passed, it would be effective on school property, at school-sponsored events and at school bus stops. Part of the state's definition of bullying, intimidation and harassment is any written, verbal or physical act that would harm a student or a student's property. Locke also proposes to start a toll-free hotline to allow students to report threats or rumors of possible acts of violence. Many schools already have taken the initiative. For instance, about 50 school districts in the state have contracted with a national hotline (800-78-CRIME) that takes anonymous tips on vandalism, guns, weapons and threats of violence. Tan Vinh can be reached at 206-515-5656 or tvinh@seattletimes.com.

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