SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Legislation backed by state Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, cracking down on bullying in schools and offering resources to young victims is now law.

“Bullying needs to be stopped in all of Illinois’ schools, and our schools should be equipped with the necessary resources to help our children actively stop these instances,” Harper said. “As a mother, I know how important it is for families to send their children to safe, welcoming schools, so I am working to enact laws that encourage compassion and understanding.”

Harper voted to pass House Bill 2950, which is now law. Her measure requires schools to periodically provide counseling resources to students if they or another student encounter bullying. According to StopBullying.gov, bullying can inflict significant impacts on the mental health and academic achievement of students, which can also affect individuals as adults. Harper and her colleagues want to ensure that all students are given the necessary tools to be successful, while removing unnecessary hurdles.

“I want to make sure our children do not worry about being harassed or picked on at their neighborhood schools,” Harper said. “I want to provide an environment for my daughter and our students to be focused on doing the best they can in school and collaborating with their peers, not fearing them.”