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HB 736

Education; policies prohibiting bullying and cyberbullying; add and revise definitions

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sheila Jones

House Bill 736 strengthens anti-bullying policies in Georgia schools, requiring local boards to adopt clear definitions and support systems by July 2026 for grades 6-12.

House Second Readers
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Bill Summary · HB 736

Summary of House Bill 736

Bill Number: HB 736
Title: Education; policies prohibiting bullying and cyberbullying; add and revise definitions
Status: House Second Readers
Introduced: March 06, 2025
Sponsor: Representative Jones of the 60th

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 736 aims to enhance the existing policies in Georgia regarding the prevention of bullying and cyberbullying in schools. The bill seeks to clarify definitions related to bullying, establish more comprehensive reporting and enforcement mechanisms, and ensure that local school boards adopt effective policies to combat bullying behavior among students.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several significant amendments to Code Section 20-2-751.4 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, including:

  1. Revised Definitions:

    • Bullying: Defined as severe, pervasive, or persistent acts targeting a student based on various characteristics, including race, religion, gender identity, and disability. The definition encompasses both physical and electronic forms of bullying.
    • Cyberbullying: Specifically refers to bullying conducted through electronic communication methods, such as social media and text messages.
    • Electronic Communication: Includes any transfer of data or signals via electronic means, covering a wide range of communication methods.

  2. Policy Requirements:

    • Local boards of education must adopt anti-bullying policies by July 1, 2026, which must be included in the student code of conduct.
    • A structured notification system for parents or guardians when a student is found to be involved in bullying incidents.

  3. Disciplinary Actions:

    • Students in grades 6-12 who commit bullying offenses three times within a school year will be assigned to an alternative school.
    • The bill emphasizes progressive discipline strategies, which focus on corrective measures rather than punitive actions, such as counseling and community service.

  4. Reporting and Resources:

    • Schools are required to provide information regarding anti-bullying programs and resources for counseling to affected students and their families.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Students: The bill directly impacts students in grades 6-12, particularly those involved in bullying incidents, either as perpetrators or victims.
  • Parents and Guardians: They will receive notifications regarding bullying incidents involving their children and access to support resources.
  • Local School Boards: They are tasked with implementing the new policies and ensuring compliance with the updated definitions and requirements.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on March 6, 2025, and has progressed to the House Second Readers stage as of March 11, 2025.
  • Local school boards are given a deadline of July 1, 2026, to adopt the required anti-bullying policies.

Conclusion

House Bill 736 represents a significant step towards strengthening anti-bullying measures in Georgia schools. By revising definitions and establishing clear policies and procedures, the bill aims to create a safer and more supportive educational environment for all students.

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

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