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Bill

HB 1324

An Act amending Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in assault, providing for the offense of bullying.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz and 18 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania proposes criminalizing bullying by adding it to state criminal code, potentially increasing penalties for harassment and intimidation targeting vulnerable individuals.

Referred to Judiciary
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1324

Legislative bill overview

HB 1324 proposes to amend Pennsylvania's criminal code by creating a new statutory offense specifically for bullying under Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses). The bill would establish bullying as a criminal matter rather than handling it solely through school discipline policies or civil remedies. This represents a significant shift in how Pennsylvania addresses bullying behavior.

Why is this important

Bullying has documented psychological and physical health impacts on victims, including increased suicide risk, depression, and academic decline. Criminalizing bullying could provide stronger deterrence and legal recourse for severe cases, though it also raises questions about prosecutorial discretion and whether criminal penalties are the most effective intervention. Currently, most bullying is addressed through school policies, civil suits, or harassment statutes rather than dedicated criminal law.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional clarity: "Bullying" can be subjective; the bill's exact definition will determine whether it captures serious harassment or potentially criminizes common peer conflicts, juvenile disagreements, or protected speech
  • Age and intent considerations: It's unclear whether minors would face criminal charges (with potential lifelong consequences) or if the law targets adults, and what level of intent or awareness is required
  • Overlap with existing law: Pennsylvania already has harassment, intimidation, and assault statutes; unclear whether this creates redundancy or addresses genuine gaps in current criminal protections

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

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