Bills to Watch

FROM IDS REPORTS

Ind. House of Representatives

Anti-bullying Bill (Bill No. 1567)
Summary Requires the Indiana Department of Education to develop guidelines to assist school corporations and safe school committees in establishing bullying prevention programs and investigation and reporting procedures.
The bill modifies the definition of bullying to include acts which:
1. Places the student in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s person or property;
2. Have a substantially detrimental effect on the student’s physical or mental health;
3. Have the effect of substantially interfering with the student’s academic performance; or
4. Have the effect of substantially interfering with the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities and privileges provided by the school.
Author Rep. Gregory Porter, D-Indianapolis
Latest Action First reading (1/20/2011): referred to the Committee on Education
CALL Rep. Porter to comment on his bill: 317-232-9600

Double Up for College Bill (Bill No. 1575)
Summary Allows the Indiana Commission for Higher Education to set a cap on student fees for courses taken under the dual college credit program and taught by high school teachers in a high school setting.
A state educational institution may grant financial assistance to a student for courses taken under this program based on:
1. The student’s financial need,
2. The student’s academic achievement, or
3. Any other criteria.
Authors Rep. Terri Austin, D-Anderson
Latest Action First reading (1/20/2011): referred to the Committee on Education
CALL Rep. Austin to comment on her bill: 317-234-9047
Related Bills House Bill No. 1296

Ind. Senate

Abortion Prohibition Bill (Bill No. 290)
Summary Prohibits abortion in Indiana unless a physician determines, based on sound medical practice, that the abortion is necessary to save the life of a pregnant woman. Makes it a Class C felony if a person knowingly, intentionally or recklessly performs an abortion. Repeals current statutes governing the performance of abortions.
Authors Sen. Jim Tomes, R-Wadesville, and Sen. Dennis Kruse, R-Auburn
Coauthors Sen. Jim Banks, R-Columbia City; Sen. Scott Schneider, R-Indianapolis, and Sen. Jim Smith, R-Charleston
Latest Action First reading (1/06/2011): referred to the Committee on Health and Provider Services
Call Sen. Tomes or Sen. Kruse to comment on their bill: 317-232-9400
Related Bills Senate Bill No. 50, Senate Bill No. 522

­­— Vince Zito