State Senator Hannon Fights Cyber Bullying

Hannon Fights Cyber-Bullying - Introduces New Legislation
Posted on March 29, 2010
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Senator Kemp Hannon, who’s been spreading cyber-bullying awareness on Long Island and across New York State, has introduced new legislation which prohibits bullying and cyber-bullying on school property and establishes a statewide central registry for bullying, cyber-bullying and hazing complaints.

“Tragically, cyber-bullying has become a new reality, and thus, a serious focus in our communities. We must respond by increasing awareness as well as prohibiting such dangerous behavior,” said Senator Hannon. “It’s important for parents to speak to their children about cyber-bullying and to review the warning signs,” continued Hannon. “We must send a message to everyone as parents, elected officials and community leaders that this type of detrimental behavior will not be tolerated in our schools nor anywhere in our community,” said Hannon.

Signs that your child may be a victim of cyber-bullying include: Avoiding the computer, cell phone, and other devices; appearing stressed when receiving e-mails, instant messages or text messages; withdrawing from family and friends, or acting reluctant to attend school and other activities and avoiding conversations about the computer.

Signs that your child may be cyber-bullying others include: Prior involvement in bullying, or the target of bullying; avoiding conversations about computer and cell phone activities; switching screens or closing programs when you, or others, are nearby; laughing excessively while using the computer or cell phone; using multiple online accounts or an account that is not his or her own; excessive use of a computer and/or cell phone and agitation if access to a computer or cell phone is restricted or denied.

For more information regarding cyber-bullying, visit http://criminaljustice.state.ny.us/ and type “cyber-bullying” in the search bar located on the upper right-hand corner of the screen.