SPRINGFIELD (WBBM NEWSRADIO) – The Illinois Senate will consider legislation updating the state cyberbullying law.

State Representative Margaret Corke’s legislation would require that schools “make diligent efforts” to notify the parents or guardians of students involved in bullying incidents within 24 hours of the administration being made aware of them.

That would go for the bully and the victim.

The legislation specifically targets cyberbullying, which, the Chicago Democrat noted, often happens outside the schoolyard. It would also require the State Board of Education to collect data regarding bullying incidents.

“This legislation will update the existing cyberbullying statute to help us better understand what incidents are occurring and how to address them,” Corke said.

The legislation expands the definition of bullying to add academic status, pregnancy, and homelessness.

Opponents argue it puts an unnecessary burden on school administrators.

It passed the house on a vote of 78 to 25 and will now go to the Senate.

Listen to our new podcast Courier Pigeon

Listen to WBBM Newsradio now on Audacy!

Sign up and follow WBBM Newsradio

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram