Task force to prevent bullying in schools created under new legislation from Donovan

U.S. Rep. Dan Donovan (R-NY), working to halt an increase in bullying in schools, introduced a bill that would form an anti-bullying task force comprised of teachers, guidance counselors, psychologists and others that would develop best practices to stop the abuse.

Named in honor of Danny Fitzpatrick, a teenager from Staten Island who took his own life after being bullied, Danny’s Law would establish a task force to recommend policies for parents, students and lawmakers to curb bullying.

“We can’t bring Danny back, but we can honor his life by preventing this type of tragedy from happening to another child and family,” Donovan said in announcing the legislation on Monday. “Danny’s family is incredibly brave to channel their grief into action. There isn’t one perfect solution, but Danny’s Law is a first step to creating a comprehensive strategy to tackle bullying nationwide.”

Statistics from StopBullying.gov show that more than 70 percent of young people say they have seen bullying in their schools.

Under the bill, the president would appoint members to the task force with feedback from Congress. Following hearings and meetings, the task force would recommend strategies to respond to or stop bullying, to manage classroom situations and to identify needed policy changes.

“I commend Congressman Donovan for introducing this important legislation to enhance the ability to identify and prevent bullying,” Michael Reilly, the president of the Community Education Council for District 31, said.

Donovan’s legislation has also drawn support from education advocacy organizations like the United Federation of Teachers and the American Federation of Teachers.

“Rep. Dan Donovan has a sensible approach to helping schools address, discuss and combat bullying,” Randi Weingarten, the president of the American Federation of Teachers, said. “Bullying is pervasive in all areas of the country, and this legislation should pass overwhelmingly on a bipartisan basis.”

The NYC Education Department’s annual New York City School Survey this year found that 81 percent of children in grades 6-12 reported that students harass, bully and intimidate their peers.