Substitute Senate Bill No. 327, also known as Special Act No. 24-9, is a legislative act that establishes a task force to study the effects and social impact of hate speech and bullying on children. The task force is directed to analyze the mental and physical health consequences, academic achievement impacts, settings where hate speech and bullying occur, the perpetrators of such acts, contributing factors, and to recommend strategies for prevention, reduction, and addressing the effects of hate speech and bullying in communities and schools. The bill defines "hate speech" as expression intended to vilify or incite hatred against a child based on various characteristics, and "bullying" as unwanted aggressive behavior among children with a power imbalance.

The task force will consist of members appointed by various legislative leaders and will include representatives from organizations that work to improve children's well-being, eliminate discrimination, advocate for special education equity, and provide pediatric care, among others. The bill outlines the composition of the task force, the appointment process, and the administrative support structure. The task force is required to submit a report on its findings and recommendations by January 1, 2025, to the joint standing committee of the General Assembly having cognizance of matters relating to children. The task force will terminate upon submission of the report or on January 1, 2025, whichever is later. The bill was approved on May 30, 2024.