May 13, 2010
May 13, 2010
LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today said approval of House Bill 4580 by the State House of Representatives puts Michigan one step closer to requiring every public school to adopt a policy that prohibits harassment or bullying at school.
Granholm first proposed an anti-bullying law in 2006 and has continuously urged the legislature to act to protect children and save lives.
"Protecting our young people must be our number one priority," Granholm said. "I applaud the Michigan House for its leadership in passing this important legislation that aims to prevent future heartbreaking tragedies resulting from bullying."
If enacted, HB 4580 will be known as "Matt's Safe School Law" in honor of Matthew Epling, a young East Lansing student who took his life after being bullied by other students.
Michigan is one of only eight states without an anti-bullying law.
The bill is sponsored by State Representative Pam Byrnes (D-Chelsea) and a bipartisan coalition of legislators. HB 4580 passed with bipartisan support.
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