Gopal-Reynolds Jackson bill would mandate anti-bullying policies at non-public schools

Senate Education Committee Chairman Vin Gopal (D-Long Branch) has introduced legislation requiring New Jersey’s non-public schools to adopt and publish anti-harassment and anti-bullying policies, including procedures addressing cyberbullying.

The “Jack Reid Law: Protect All Students Act” would also compel non-public schools to promptly investigate reported incidents, maintain contact with victims, and take steps to ensure their safety throughout the investigation.

Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (D-Trenton), the chair of the Assembly Education Committee, introduced the bill in the lower house.

State law requires public schools in New Jersey to comply with the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act.  Non-public schools are encouraged to follow similar standards but are not required to do so; the Gopal-Reynolds Jackson bill would mandate it.

“Every student deserves to feel safe at school, regardless of whether they attend a public or nonpublic institution,” Gopal stated. “This legislation is about ensuring that no child falls through the cracks when it comes to bullying protections.  Parents should have the confidence that incidents will be addressed, students should know they will be heard, and schools should have clear procedures for responding when bullying occurs.”

The legislation is named for Jack Reid, a 17-year-old who died by suicide in April 2022 after experiencing bullying for a year at The Lawrenceville School.  His family has advocated for stronger protections for students.

“This bill closes a real gap: more than 200,000 New Jersey students attend nonpublic schools with no legal protection against bullying,” said Jack’s parents, William and Elizabeth Reid.  “Its introduction is an important milestone and especially meaningful to our family. There is a long road ahead, but we are thankful to every legislator, parent, and advocate who joins us in the fight to protect every student from the cruelty of bullying.”

The Senate bill was introduced on June 15 and referred to the Senate Education Committee.

New York enacted similar legislation last year.