MN SF2411

School districts and charter schools must adopt a bullying prohibition policy by September 1, 2014, defining bullying as severe, pervasive, or offensive conduct that substantially interferes with educational opportunities, places students in fear of harm, or disrupts school operations.

Policies must establish procedures for reporting, documenting, and investigating alleged bullying incidents, protecting investigative information consistent with state law, and notifying parents of both bullied and bullying students throughout the investigation process.

Policies must include disciplinary measures for bullying and retaliation, strategies to protect victims, procedures for law enforcement notification if crimes are suspected, and disciplinary measures for false accusations.

Schools must disseminate anti-bullying policies through student and personnel handbooks, school websites, and staff training, and must provide bullying prevention programs to all students kindergarten through grade 12.

Individuals who report bullying in good faith are granted immunity from civil or criminal liability, and schools implementing compliant policies receive immunity from liability for bullying incidents.