NY's Anti-Bullying Law Now In Effect

As of today, New York's landmark anti-bullying ordinance is now state law. And as with so many LGBT rights issues in New York, heavy credit goes to Assemblyman Daniel O'Donnell, the chief sponsor of the bill. Via press release:

"As parents, educators, and former students ourselves, New Yorkers are all well aware of the great harm bullying can cause. I am proud that today schools will have new, more effective tools to curb this harmful epidemic. By discouraging discrimination and emphasizing inclusion, schools will stop harassment before it occurs and help protect both victims and bullies from lifelong damage." [said O'Donnell.] O’Donnell has been collaborating with the Dignity Task Force to develop guidelines that are consistent with the legislative intent: that schools foster an inclusive culture rather than focus on punishing bullies. This technique has been proven effective by several rigorous studies. In early May, O’Donnell also worked with the Board of Regents to ensure that charter school students were included under the new curriculum provisions designed to reduce discrimination, so that every child in New York public schools would be protected. Members of the Dignity Task Force have been holding free training sessions to acquaint educators with the new policies, and will continue to do so over the summer.

Read more about the Dignity For All Students Act.

RELATED: O'Donnell, who represents the Upper West Side of Manhattan, is up for reelection. Please consider showing your appreciation via his campaign ad on this blog.