The bill H.310 aims to enhance education on antisemitism in Vermont by amending the definition of harassment in Title 16 to explicitly include ethnic and antisemitic harassment. It seeks to address the rising incidents of antisemitic hate crimes, as reported by the Anti-Defamation League and the FBI, by establishing a curriculum focused on the evolving nature of antisemitism. The bill emphasizes the importance of preventing antisemitism in schools and mandates the Secretary of Education to develop a comprehensive antisemitism awareness education curriculum for both elementary and secondary schools.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the Secretary of Education, which include providing training programs for school personnel, developing age-appropriate teaching materials, and offering technical assistance to local school districts for curriculum implementation. The intent is to create a structured approach to educate students and educators about the effects, ethics, and legal consequences of antisemitism, thereby fostering a more inclusive and respectful educational environment. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 16-11