Driven by the story of a gay teen’s suicide, a Boise lawmaker has introduced a law that would require school districts to take stronger steps to prevent bullying. Rep. Ilana Rubel, D-Boise, said she was moved after hearing Julie Zicha testify at the “Add the Words” hearing in January. “Her son was just mercilessly bullied and ended up taking his own life,” Rubel said. Zicha’s 19-year-old son, Ryan, killed himself in 2011, after spending his teenage years being tormented and beaten by some of his peers at his high school Pocatello. Zicha has become an outspoken advocate against bullying and for gay rights since then. Rubel said she has heard from many other people who have been bullied since she started to work on the legislation/Nathan Brown, Twin Falls Times News. More here.

Question: Does Idaho need a bill to crack down on bullying?