During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an increase in use of digital platforms — especially social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok and others. Research now shows that many increased hours spent online may be associated with cyberbullying.
With more and more reports surfacing about the increase in cyberbullying, especially among school children, several lawmakers are focusing the issue. Three State Senators are working to push legislation introduced last year — Senate Bill 316 — in the upcoming 2022 session. Authored by Sen. Jason Anavitarte (R-Dallas), along with co-sponsors Senator Brian Strickland (R-McDonough), Senator Randy Robertson (R-Cataula), this legislation would require local boards of education to notify students and their parents that certain acts of cyberbullying may be considered stalking.
“Cyberbullying has emerged as one of the most prevalent and most dangerous forms of harassment taking place in our schools,” said Sen. Anavitarte. “In situations where the bullying escalates to stalking, it is important that we have legal mechanisms in place to ensure our students are safe and protected.”
Anavitarte says the idea for this legislation came from a student at North Paulding High School who believes lawmakers need to address this crisis for youth in the community.
“This bill will provide additional security for all students and send a strong message that bullying of any kind will not be acceptable,” Anavitarte said.
A recent report by National Geographic referred to a study that analyzed millions of websites and social platforms early in the COVID-19 pandemic. They found a 70 percent increase in bullying and abusive language among kids and teens on social media and chat forums, a 40 percent increase in toxicity on gaming platforms, and a 200 percent spike in traffic to hate sites.
“It should be clear to every Georgia citizen that the big-three social media companies; Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, have completely overwhelmed traditional media and infected the lives of every citizen in the United States and every community throughout the world,” said Sen. Robertson. “These profit-before-people media companies have intentionally ignored their obligation to protect Georgia’s families from the horrific damage caused by cyberbullying and cyberstalking.
“This complete lack of compassion should be a clear signal to every member of the Georgia General Assembly that it is our responsibility to establish strong and enforceable protections. These protections must shelter our citizens from the physical and psychological damage caused by cyberbullying and cyberstalking. SB 316 moves us in a direction that will allow us to properly serve and protect Georgia families.”
Senate Bill 316 was introduced last March, and the first reading will be held in the 2022 session.
