There are several aspects of anti-bullying policy and philosophy that should be included in a comprehensive state anti-bullying law. As you research the existing or proposed anti-bullying law in your state, check to be sure the following are included.

• Does your state's law include the word “bullying”?

• Is there a definition in the law of what types of behaviors constitute bullying?

• Is the law specifically related to bullying? Some states have school-safety laws, but these laws may pertain to external safety issues (such as clean air circulation in vents, no lead paint, etc.) and may not refer to any protection of the children themselves.

• Is the wording broad based to include every child? Some laws define protection of specific groups of kids (special needs kids; homosexual kids; kids from certain racial, ethnic, or religious backgrounds; etc.). A good anti-bullying law would use language that protected all children.

• Does the law include cyber bullying?

• Is the law a mandate, or is it just a recommendation? Schools should be required, not asked, to provide anti-bullying education, intervention, and prevention.

There are many other suggestions and recommendations for what makes a good anti-bullying policy, but if your state's law includes the above, it is a good start.