HF 149: Modifying provisions related to the harassment or bullying of students enrolled in school districts or accredited nonpublic schools

What it does

This bill modifies provisions related to the harassment or bullying of students enrolled in school districts or accredited nonpublic schools.28 requires school districts and accredited nonpublic schools to adopt a policy declaring harassment and bullying in schools, on school property, and at any school function, or school-sponsored activity, regardless of its location, as against state and school policy.28 defines “harassment” and “bullying” to mean any electronic, written, verbal, or physical act or conduct toward a student which is based on any actual or perceived trait or characteristic of the student and which creates an objectively hostile school environment that meets one or more of certain specified conditions.

House subcommittee · named February 6, 2025

• Rep. Helena Hayes (R) · helena.hayes@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Elinor A. Levin (D) · elinor.levin@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Henry Stone (R) · henry.stone@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 8 for, 8 against

For: Episcopal Diocese of Iowa; Inspired Life; Iowa Faith and Freedom Coalition; Iowans for Freedom; Professional Educators of Iowa; Protect My Innocence; The Family Leader; The Family Leader Foundation

Against: Episcopal Diocese of Iowa; Interfaith Alliance of Iowa Action Fund; Iowa ACEs 360; Iowa Atheists and Freethinkers; Iowa Integrated Health Planning and Advisory Council; Iowa Safe Schools; One Iowa; One Iowa Action

In plain words

1. January 30, 2025Filed in the House and sent to the Education committee
2. February 6, 2025House subcommittee named: Hayes, Levin and Stone
3. February 11, 2025Subcommittee recommended passing it
4. March 4, 2025Approved by the House committee
5. March 4, 2025Committee vote: 16–7
6. March 7, 2025Approved by the House committee, and given a new number: HF 865
7. March 21, 2025Withdrawn