Anti-bullying bill heads to special committee

RALEIGH — State lawmakers are trying to resolve differences on a statewide ban on bullying.

The House on Wednesday rejected the Senate’s changes to a plan that would require school districts to adopt anti-bullying policies.

Last year, the House approved a plan that included a list of potential victims. The bill said many factors, including perceived sexual orientation, may prompt bullying.

But when the plan was sent to the Senate, senators removed the list of potential targets.

The proposal was sent back to the House, which on Wednesday rejected the Senate’s changes on a 60-56 vote. Lawmakers now will assemble a special panel to try to resolve the chambers’
differences.

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