DE HB237

Simplifies mandatory crime reporting requirements for schools by requiring reports only for the most serious offenses: violent felonies, Assault III, and Unlawful Sexual Contact III involving students, school volunteers, or school employees on school property or at school functions.

Expands notification methods for parents to include facsimile, electronic mail, and Department of Education electronic filings in addition to telephone, in-person, and certified mail contact.

Requires principals to immediately report verified crimes to police and file written reports with the Department of Education within 5 business days if probable cause is established.

Mandates that special education and disciplinary records of students with disabilities be transmitted to law enforcement when crimes are reported, in compliance with federal law.

Removes requirements for mandatory court filing of misdemeanor charges and eliminates the suspension/alternative placement procedures that were previously mandated following crime reports.