Maryland Adopts Antibullying Law  | News | Advocate.com

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May 14, 2008
Maryland Adopts Antibullying Law

Maryland has become the one of the few states in the U.S. to enact a law to protect LGBT students from bullying in schools.

Gov. Martin O'Malley signed the bill into law on Tuesday, which makes Maryland the seventh state to protect students on the basis of gender identity or expression, and the 11th state to do so based on sexual orientation, according to a joint press release from the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network and Equality Maryland.

"We applaud Governor O’Malley and the bipartisan supporters in the Maryland legislature for taking action to make Maryland schools safer," GLSEN executive director Kevin Jennings said in a statement. "Feeling safe in school is directly related to academic achievement and student success. This law is an important step in reducing bullying, improving school climate, and making school better for all Maryland students."

The measure will now require school districts to develop bullying prevention programs for students, staff, volunteers, and parents. (The Advocate)

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