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politics5h ago
Virginia antibullying law ‘Autumn’s Law’ introduced
Wdbj7.com and 1 more
- Autumn’s Law would create a new Class 1 misdemeanor for aggravated bullying and cyberbullying in Virginia.
- The bill requires principals to report incidents to local law enforcement and includes clear school discipline and support provisions.
- The measure is named after Autumn Bushman, a Roanoke County student who died by suicide in 2025 after bullying.
- The legislation preserves First Amendment protections as long as expression does not disrupt school work.
- Autumn’s Law would apply to acts based on race, ethnicity, religion, age, sex, disability, and other characteristics.
- The bill adds reporting duties for school staff and outlines potential disciplinary actions including expulsions when necessary.
- The proposal directs schools to provide mental health resources to victims.
- The bill was introduced in the Virginia Senate by Senator Bill Stanley.
- The legislation moves toward criminal investigations of the most serious bullying cases.
Vote 18