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HF 149

A bill for an act modifying provisions related to the harassment or bullying of students enrolled in school districts or accredited nonpublic schools.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Brooke Boden

Iowa bill modifying student harassment and bullying protections in public and nonpublic schools was withdrawn after committee advancement with disputed 16-7 support.

Withdrawn.
#bullying #harassment #privateeducation #schooldistricts #schools
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Bill Summary · HF 149

Legislative bill overview

HF 149 modifies Iowa's existing student harassment and bullying protections by adjusting provisions affecting school districts and accredited nonpublic schools. The bill was withdrawn on March 21, 2025, but had advanced through committee review with recommended amendments before withdrawal. The specific substantive changes are not detailed in the available action history.

Why is this important

Student harassment and bullying policies directly affect school safety, mental health outcomes, and educational access for Iowa's K-12 population. Modifications to these policies can impact how schools respond to incidents, what protections students receive, and the legal obligations placed on educational institutions. The bill's progression through committee votes (16-7 approval) suggests substantive disagreement among legislators about the proposed changes.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of protected conduct: Disagreements likely exist over what behaviors constitute actionable harassment versus protected speech or normal peer interaction
  • School liability and enforcement: Whether schools face increased legal responsibility or compliance burdens, particularly for nonpublic institutions with different governing structures
  • Due process and accused student protections: Balance between protecting bullying victims and ensuring fair treatment procedures for students accused of harassment

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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