With the start of another academic year, N.J. schools must now abide by one of the toughest anti-bullying laws in the nation, aimed to combat bullying in schools.
Gov. Chris Christie signed the “Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights” in January, holding educators responsible for reporting bullying in and out of school.
During its time as a bill, the legislation gained publicity after the suicide of former University student Tyler Clementi, whose roommate recorded and intimate encounter between him and another man on a webcam.
While the law was just enacted, some educators find it to be a bit overreaching since it requires teachers and administrators to report all accounts of bullying to the state.
“I think the intentions of the law are worthy but the reporting requirements are excessive,” said Andrew Boufford, a teacher at J.P. Stevens High School in Edison, N.J.
The anti-bullying law was extremely popular when proposed, with only one legislator opposed, but is now receiving criticism for its extensive procedures. Boufford said the law creates confusion for educators in deciding if something is bullying or not.
Read the full story at the Daily Targum.
Please join the conversation about our stories on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Reddit, MeWe, Rumble, Gab, Minds and Gettr.