The bill amends Chapter 16-21 of the General Laws by adding a new section titled "16-21-44. Bullying -- Directed community service." This section establishes a form of restorative justice designed to address acts of bullying in and around schools that are based on religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or ethnicity. It allows for students who commit such acts of bullying to be required to perform up to ten hours of directed community service, in addition to any other penalties provided by law. The community service is intended to deter future bullying behavior while promoting learning, knowledge, and insight.

The bill defines "bullying" as having the same meaning as "bullying" and "cyberbullying" as defined in 16-21-33. It specifies that directed community service may be imposed by a juvenile hearing board, school administration, or a combination of both, and it shall not be deemed a criminal penalty. The community service must be tailored to the specific bullying action; for example, a student who has bullied another based on their Jewish faith or heritage could perform service at a Holocaust museum. Furthermore, any community service mandated under this section must be completed within three months from the date of imposition. The act is set to take effect upon passage.