New Jersey's Attempt to Get Tough on Bullying

Apparently in New Jersey there is a push to implement the toughest anti-bullying legislation in schools.  http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/11/22/AR2010112204676.html?hpid=sec-education  There has been a concern and an outcry about suicides and harassment, especially that geared toward gays.  With the increase in internet use and technology, it is getting harder to monitor and limit this type of harassment.  Students and their parents have few options and resources once this threat is identified.  And, although their are state suggestions for dealing with this type of concern, there is no law and no school education to help discourage it.

I see the need for a change and agree that something needs to be done.  The article (NJ lawmakers approve tough law to fight bullying) did note that the law is awaiting approval of the governor.  It also noted that some social conservatives had concerns over the bill.  What the article didn't provide was more specific information about the bill itself.  I felt this (lack of information) is a disservice to those reading the article.  Clearly, most would want to protect those that are wronged.  The real question is whether or not that protection comes at a price that would affect everyone in the long run (potential loss of our constitutional rights).  Regardless, I felt this article was a good example of one of the dangers of increased internet use.  I had read other articles earlier in the year that had identified this problem with the recommendations that policies and monitoring be put in place BEFORE students are encouraged to use the internet and computers in school.  I think this would be very wise.