HF 865: 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.

Senate subcommittee · named March 26, 2025

• Sen. Sandy Salmon (R) · sandy.salmon@legis.iowa.gov
• Sen. Tom Shipley (R) · tom.shipley@legis.iowa.gov
• Sen. Sarah Trone Garriott (D) · sarah.trone.garriott@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. March 7, 2025Filed in the House
2. March 18, 2025Passed the House, 64–33
3. March 19, 2025Arrived in the Senate
4. March 26, 2025Senate subcommittee named: Salmon, Shipley and Trone Garriott
5. March 27, 2025Subcommittee recommended passing it
6. March 31, 2025Approved by the Senate committee
7. April 29, 2025Passed the Senate, 32–16
8. May 19, 2025Sent to the Governor
9. May 27, 2025Signed into law