Bill > HB2199

This bill, effective 60 days after enactment, amends the Public School Code of 1949 to require all school entities, starting with the 2026-2027 school year, to adopt or update their bullying policies to specifically address gender-based bullying. This policy must be integrated into the school's code of student conduct and outline disciplinary actions for bullying based on a student's actual or perceived sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, and must include programs for prevention, intervention, and education. For nonbinary or transgender students transitioning, the policy must set guidelines for support, protect their privacy regarding their transition from other students, faculty, and parents, and use their stated gender identity and pronouns when addressing them. School entities must make this policy available in student handbooks, on their websites if they have one, in every classroom, and posted prominently in school buildings, and review it with students within 90 days of adoption and annually thereafter. Furthermore, school entities must review their bullying policies every three years and annually submit a copy, along with information on gender-based bullying prevention programs, to the Department of Education as part of their annual report. The bill also clarifies that a school entity's bullying policy can include acts occurring outside of school if they meet specific criteria, and defines "bullying" as an intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act or series of acts directed at another student that is severe, persistent, or pervasive, and substantially interferes with a student's education, creates a threatening environment, or disrupts the school's operation. Important terms defined include "gender identity or expression," "nonbinary," "school setting," "sexual orientation," and "transgender."

Education

https://www.palegis.us/legislation/bills/2025/hb2199