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Bill

HB 975

"Mississippi Comprehensive Anti-Bullying and Cyberbullying Act of 2025"; enact to implement phased-in anti-bullying programs and intervention strategies.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Felsher and 1 co-sponsor

Mississippi bill establishes phased anti-bullying programs with intervention strategies for schools, though it died in committee and lacks specified funding details.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 975

Legislative bill overview

HB 975 would establish a comprehensive statewide anti-bullying and cyberbullying program in Mississippi with phased implementation of intervention strategies. The bill creates requirements for schools to develop and execute bullying prevention protocols, though specific enforcement mechanisms and funding details are not provided in the bill summary.

Why is this important

Bullying and cyberbullying significantly impact student mental health, academic performance, and school safety. Comprehensive state-level frameworks can provide schools with standardized tools and resources while creating consistency in how incidents are addressed across districts, though implementation effectiveness depends heavily on adequate funding and training.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding and implementation costs: Phased programs require sustained budget allocation; unclear whether the bill appropriates funds or places unfunded mandates on school districts
  • Parental rights and free speech balance: Cyberbullying definitions must carefully distinguish between protected speech and actionable harassment; overly broad language could chill legitimate student expression
  • Enforcement and due process: Questions about how schools investigate allegations, protect accused students' rights, and ensure consistent discipline policies across varied communities with different standards

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

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