The House Education Committee endorsed a bill Wednesday that would require school districts to create anti-bullying and hazing policies. The bill, now on its way to the full House, defines bullying and hazing as, "intentionally or knowingly committing an act that endangers the physical health or safety of a school employee or student." It can also include physical brutality, blocking a person from moving and/or making someone consume food, alcohol, drugs or other substances, among other things. Consequences would include suspension or dissolution of a team, organization or other group. An earlier version of HB325 defined bullying partly as any communication or conduct meant to threaten, harass or embarrass. But some lawmakers thought that was too vague, so sponsor Rep. Carol Spackman Moss, D-Holladay, changed the bill. Members of the PTA and the Legislative Coalition for People with Disabilities spoke in favor of the bill. "Students really need and deserve the protection of this bill, and we can't wait any longer for this protection," Highland High senior Cara Cerise said.

- Lisa Schencker