Mass Senate Passes S1984, To Create Commission on Bullying

Success! On November 5, 2015. the Mass Senate passed S1984. This is an important milestone in our efforts to secure the human and civil rights of the elderly and the disabled.

“Bullying isn’t just an issue confined to our schools and classrooms; it reaches individuals in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, workplaces, and public housing,” said Senator Joan Lovely. “Forming a commission to come together and work collaboratively will help create safer, healthier communities for all residents.” We are grateful; to Senator Joan Lovely, the primary sponsor, and to her colleagues who signed on as sponsors, as well as to her staff, including Legislative Director Anna Roy. Everyone on Beacon Hill, legislators and staff alike, has been our partner in the effort to find remedies for bullying through a legislative process. In her presentation of the bill to the senate, Lovely stressed that the problem of bullying in public and subsidized housing is both serious and widespread. Sen Lovely graciously noted that the legislation came about as the result of grass-roots advocacy from her constituents, including Jerry Halberstadt. Senator Forry, co-chair of the Joint Committee on Housing, added her strong endorsement and support. She noted the positive impact on the committee made by the impassioned testimony of victims and observers of bullying. We still need to see passage in the House and a signature bv the Governor. So please be sure to remind your state representatives of the importance of speedy passage of S1984. Even before we have established our commission here in the Commonwealth, activists in Missouri and California are turning to the Stop Bullying Coalition for support and advice as they seek comparable legislative action in their own states.Indeed, Massachusetts is a leader in protecting the rights of citizens. Our work depends on the ideas, energy, and support of each of you. Thank you all for that you do! Jerry and Jonathan The Stop Bullying Coalition Press Release from Senator Lovely: http://www.senatorjoanlovely.com/?page_id=947