MS HB570

Prohibits bullying and harassment of any student or employee in public K-12 schools during school programs, activities, on school buses, and through school computer networks

Requires each school district to adopt an anti-bullying policy by December 1, 2010, with the State Department of Education providing a model policy by October 1, 2010

Defines bullying as systematically inflicting physical or psychological harm including teasing, social exclusion, threats, stalking, violence, theft, harassment, and destruction of property; harassment includes conduct that creates fear of harm or substantially interferes with education

District policies must include reporting procedures (including anonymous reporting), investigation protocols, parent notification, counseling referrals, and training for students, staff, and volunteers

Provides civil immunity for persons who report bullying in good faith, and classifies abuse, bullying, or harassment of school officials or students as a misdemeanor punishable by fines of $10-$50