Missouri House members have endorsed legislation requiring school districts to bolster policies against bullying.
Districts would need to develop procedures for reporting bullying, investigating significant cases and responding. Schools also would need to post policies for dealing with bullying throughout their buildings and give annual notice to students, parents and staff members.
School district employees also would be required to report bullying that they witness and students would be encouraged to do so.
Sponsoring House member Sue Allen, a Republican from St. Louis County, says bullying is too common and the legislation could help bullied children.
The House gave the legislation first-round approval Wednesday, and it needs another vote before moving to the Senate. Lawmakers have less than three weeks to approve bills.
