VA SB265

Creates the criminal offense of "aggravated bullying" as a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months in jail and/or $2,500 fine) for repeated bullying acts that place victims in fear of bodily harm or interfere with their ability to participate in school activities

Defines aggravated bullying to include acts targeting students based on race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, disability, medical condition, mental health condition, or appearance

Establishes that continued bullying after being told to stop constitutes prima facie evidence of intentional conduct, making prosecution easier for victims who have warned their aggressors

Requires school principals to immediately report incidents of aggravated bullying to local law enforcement and to the division superintendent

Mandates school boards update their codes of student conduct to include prohibitions against aggravated bullying, detailed reporting procedures, escalating disciplinary consequences including potential expulsion, and information about civil remedies available to victims