IL HB5844

Amends Illinois School Code Section 27-23.7 to expand the definition of bullying to include off-campus conduct using non-school technology or devices if it substantially interferes with a student's ability to participate in school activities or disrupts the educational process.

Prohibits bullying based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and other distinguishing characteristics in all school districts and non-public, non-sectarian schools.

Specifies that schools are not required to staff or monitor nonschool-related activities, functions, or programs when addressing off-campus cyberbullying.

Requires each school district and non-public school to create, maintain, and file a bullying prevention policy with the State Board of Education, update the policy every 2 years, and communicate it annually to students and parents.

Clarifies that the law does not infringe on free expression, free exercise of religion, or First Amendment protections under the U.S. Constitution or Illinois Constitution.