North Carolina Anti-Bullying Bill Heads to Governor

NEW YORK - The North Carolina House today sent an anti-bullying bill with enumerated categories including sexual orientation and gender identity to Governor Bev Perdue.

If Perdue signs the law, North Carolina will become the eighth state to implement an anti-bullying law that includes protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Oregon became the seventh state last week.

“This is a great leap forward for students in North Carolina, and we salute the legislature for taking this crucial step to ensure their safety and well-being,” GLSEN Executive Director Eliza Byard said. “We urge the governor to sign this bill into law to ensure that North Carolina schools are places where all students are free to learn.”

GLSEN commends the efforts of Equality North Carolina and all North Carolina advocates for bringing the state one step closer to making sure all students are safe in school.

About GLSEN
GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe schools for all students. Established nationally in 1995, GLSEN envisions a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. GLSEN seeks to develop school climates where difference is valued for the positive contribution it makes to creating a more vibrant and diverse community. For information on GLSEN's research, educational resources, public policy advocacy, student organizing programs and educator training initiatives, visit www.glsen.org.