HF 368 Summary

• Defines "malicious and sadistic conduct" as creating a hostile learning environment by intentionally injuring another without just cause or engaging in extreme or excessive cruelty.

• Requires school boards to adopt written policies addressing malicious and sadistic conduct involving race, gender, religion, sexual harassment, sexual orientation, and sexual exploitation by staff members or students in public and charter schools.

• Policies must apply to students, teachers, administrators, and school personnel and must include minimum components and specific disciplinary actions for violations in compliance with collective bargaining agreements and state law sections 121A.41 to 121A.56.

• Mandates policies be conspicuously posted in school buildings, distributed to employees and contractors upon hiring, and included in student handbooks.

• Requires each school to develop a process for discussing the policy with students, parents, and school employees.