IL SB0673

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

Defines bullying to include severe or pervasive physical or verbal acts and cyber-bullying that places students in reasonable fear of harm, causes detrimental effects on health, substantially interferes with academic performance, or prevents participation in school activities.

Requires school districts and schools to create, maintain, and file bullying prevention policies with the State Board of Education that include reporting procedures, investigation timelines of 10 school days, parental notification, and disciplinary consequences.

Mandates policies include interventions such as social work services, restorative measures, counseling, and skill-building programs, with increased accountability measures when bullying is based on religion, race, ethnicity, or other Illinois Human Rights Act protected categories.

Requires biennial policy review and evaluation, posting of policies on school websites and in student handbooks, and State Board of Education monitoring and technical support.