Anti-bullying bill shot down in Illinois because the GOP thought it was gay.

[Direckshun]

A pathological fear of homosexuality.

Little more than that.

http://www.suntimes.com/12707687-761...omosexual.html

State Senate rejects anti-bullying bill amid conservative fears it is ‘pro-homosexual’
BY CHRISTOPHER WILLS Associated Press
May 22, 2012 4:56PM

SPRINGFIELD — A push to make Illinois schools adopt more detailed policies to prevent bullying fell short Tuesday in the state Senate amid concerns that its real purpose was to lecture students on embracing homosexuality.

The measure fell one vote short of passage, although it could get another chance in the remaining days of the legislative session.

The bill would have required anti-bullying policies to include a definition of bullying and a statement saying it was against the law. The policies would have spelled out how allegations could be submitted anonymously and how they would be investigated. Policies also would have been required to describe what could happen to students who bully others, such as counseling or community service.

Some conservatives feared the bill would be used as cover to indoctrinate students. The Illinois Family Institute lobbied for an “opt out” provision that would let students and teachers skip any lessons or events that violated their religious beliefs.

“There are some programs that are not just against bullying in general. Some of them tend to have an agenda of being pro-homosexual,” said Sen. Kyle McCarter, R-Lebanon.

The legislation would not require schools to offer programs on bullying or homosexuality, but McCarter said it would be a step toward such a mandate.

Supporters denied it would open the door to promoting a particular viewpoint on homosexuality or any other issue. They noted it specifically includes language saying the bill isn’t meant to interfere with anyone’s freedom of speech or freedom of religion.

Sen. Heather Steans, D-Chicago, said it would make no sense to include an “opt out” provision because there’s nothing specific for students to skip. The bill requires schools to adopt more detailed policies, she said, but it doesn’t require particular lessons or assemblies.

The measure needed 30 votes to pass but got only 29, with 12 senators voting “no” and 12 voting “present.” Steans said some supporters were absent, so she’s optimistic it could pass if called for another vote.

[listopencil]

Originally Posted by blaise

That doesn't make any sense, really. Sitting in class during the video = allowing bullying?

As far as I know, children aren't allowed to vote on bills in Illinois.

[Direckshun]

Originally Posted by blaise

What's your motivation for preventing an opt-out?

I've already told you.

I believe that the government has a compelling reason to provide this information.

Just like it has a compelling reason to teach me evolution.

[Direckshun]

Blaise,

The government has a compelling reason to teach me evolution, but not to outline the various avenues I can explore if I'm getting physically/psychologically abused.

Is that right?

[blaise]

Originally Posted by listopencil

Reading Is Fundamental.

It sure is. So, is explaining whatever point it is you're trying to make instead of just pasting quotes that seemingly have nothing to do with my post.

[blaise]

Originally Posted by Direckshun

Blaise,

The government has a compelling reason to teach me evolution, but not to outline the various avenues I can explore if I'm getting physically/psychologically abused.

Is that right?

If you're wanting to make a connection go ahead. I think an opt-out is reasonable.

[Direckshun]

Originally Posted by blaise

Why not have an opt out?

Are you not going to answer the question.

[Direckshun]

Originally Posted by blaise

If you're wanting to make a connection go ahead. I think an opt-out is reasonable.

Is an opt out of science class reasonable?

"No thanks. I don't want my child learning science."

[listopencil]

Originally Posted by blaise

What's your motivation for preventing an opt-out?

I am legally obligated to ensure that my children attend school as minors. I will not place them in a dangerous environment. The school has an obligation to protect my child when under their care. If another student has a religious belief that somehow allows bullying, the school's obligation to provide a safe environment overrules that student's religious belief.

[blaise]

Originally Posted by listopencil

I am legally obligated to ensure that my children attend school as minors. I will not place them in a dangerous environment. The school has an obligation to protect my child when under their care. If another student has a religious belief that somehow allows bullying, the school's obligation to provide a safe environment overrules that student's religious belief.

Who said the school had to allow bullying? I'm talking about a kid staying in class during a video or seminar. You're claiming that missing the video will turn the kid into some wild bullying machine or something?

[listopencil]

Originally Posted by blaise

It sure is. So, is explaining whatever point it is you're trying to make instead of just pasting quotes that seemingly have nothing to do with my post.

Bullying is not acceptable. There are, and should be, stiff punishments for it. Every child should fully understand what bullying is and what those punishments are. Regardless of the culture in which they were raised.

[blaise]

Originally Posted by Direckshun

Is an opt out of science class reasonable?

"No thanks. I don't want my child learning science."

Is this science class?

[patteeu]

Why is the state legislature grandstanding on this issue in the first place? Shouldn't this be something that local schools and their school boards deal with? Are there schools in Illinois where bullying is acceptable?

[blaise]

Originally Posted by listopencil

Bullying is not acceptable. There are, and should be, stiff punishments for it. Every child should fully understand what bullying is and what those punishments are. Regardless of the culture in which they were raised.

They can understand that with an opt-out provision.

[blaise]

Originally Posted by patteeu

Why is the state legislature grandstanding on this issue in the first place? Shouldn't this be something that local schools and their school boards deal with? Are there schools in Illinois where bullying is acceptable?

So, people like Direckshun can beat some drum about homophobia while accusing others of beating a drum of homophobia.

[listopencil]

Originally Posted by blaise

Who said the school had to allow bullying? I'm talking about a kid staying in class during a video or seminar. You're claiming that missing the video will turn the kid into some wild bullying machine or something?

Originally Posted by listopencil

Bullying is not acceptable. There are, and should be, stiff punishments for it. Every child should fully understand what bullying is and what those punishments are. Regardless of the culture in which they were raised.

Here.