Bill > HB384

This bill requires school districts and chartered public schools to adopt a comprehensive policy to address bullying, centered on mandatory bullying resolution conferences and action plans. Specifically, within 10 days of a bullying incident, a designated school bullying officer must schedule a conference with the perpetrator's parents or guardians, even if they decline to participate. Following this conference, the bullying officer must develop a written action plan that includes mandatory components such as parent education courses about bullying prevention and an age-appropriate anti-bullying class for the perpetrator focusing on understanding the impacts and root causes of bullying. The bill introduces a significant consequence for repeat offenders: if a student commits a subsequent bullying incident, the bullying officer must file a petition declaring the student a "child in need of services" under existing legal statutes. Additionally, the bill requires school districts to appoint dedicated bullying officers responsible for enforcing anti-bullying policies. The legislation will take effect on January 1, 2026, and while it does not provide direct funding, the fiscal note anticipates potential increased costs for the state related to juvenile probation and voluntary services. The overall aim is to create a structured, proactive approach to preventing and addressing school bullying through mandatory interventions and educational components.

Education

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=0102&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB384