This bill amends RSA 193-F:4, II(j) to clarify the responsibilities of school districts in investigating cases of bullying and cyberbullying that occur across multiple districts. The new legal language specifies that in instances of bullying or cyberbullying involving multiple school districts, the principals or their designees from all involved districts are responsible for conducting the investigation and are encouraged to collaborate. The investigation will be initiated by the principal or designee of the first district to learn of the incident. Additionally, in cases that extend across state lines, the principal or designee from the first New Hampshire district to be informed must contact the New Hampshire attorney general’s office.

The bill also retains the existing requirement for a written procedure for investigations to be initiated within five school days of the reported incident, with the possibility of a written extension of up to seven additional school days granted by the superintendent or their designee. The amendment aims to ensure a coordinated response to bullying incidents that span multiple jurisdictions, thereby enhancing the safety and well-being of students. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, on August 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 193-F:4
As Amended by the House: 193-F:4
Version adopted by both bodies: 193-F:4