A new law will drastically affect how bullying incidents will be handled at schools all across Missouri
The campaign to stop bullying in schools is headed to a whole new level. In Missouri, what now might be considered assault will be turned into a Class E Felony, which can include jail time starting January 1st, 2017.
The new law applies to fights or bullying on school property, but also includes bus stops and while on the bus headed to and from school. In some cases, it can include other areas off campus as well.
The new level of punishment is being met by mixed emotions on both sides of the coin. Some are saying that it is too harsh; if the victim claims emotional distress, but not physical harm, from the incident(s), that may be enough to go for a felony conviction against the perpetrator.
Some parents are saying the claim of emotional distress might be hard to prove. Or, disprove. And having a criminal record while a minor can cause what some think is undue hardship later down the road.
By contrast, the parents of Megan Meier, who committed suicide at age 13, say the law didn't come soon enough. The St. Louis area teenager fell victim to cyber bullying nearly a decade ago, long before any such laws or policies were in place.
The law does state that if the person accused of bullying is under the age of 17, they will not face time in prison unless they are tried as an adult.
NOTE- The new law is not specifically aimed at schools, however they are included in this legislation that will make what might have previously been considered an assault, now a felony. For example, an altercation between two adults at a bar can also be elevated to a felony as well. We recommend researching this subject for more information.
