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VA HB53
Bill
Status
Introduced
12/29/2025
Primary Sponsor
Joshua Cole
Click for details
AI Summary
- Expands the definition of "bullying" in Virginia's student conduct code to explicitly include harassment based on a victim's actual or perceived membership in a protected group under the Virginia Human Rights Act
- Protected groups under the Virginia Human Rights Act include race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, and genetic information
- Clarifies that power imbalances in bullying situations can be based on the victim's membership in these protected categories
- Amends § 22.1-276.01 of the Code of Virginia governing student discipline definitions
Legislative Description
Student bullying; adjusts definition, characteristics of victim.
Last Action
Incorporated by Education (HB894-Sullivan) (Voice Vote)
2/11/2026
Committee Referrals
Education: K-122/5/2026
Education12/29/2025
Full Bill Text
No bill text available