NJ senator introduces college anti-bullying law

TRENTON, N.J. – New Jersey Sen. Frank Lautenberg has introduced legislation to require colleges to adopt a code of conduct that prohibits bullying and harassment.

The Tyler Clementi Higher Education Anti-Harassment Act is named for the 18-year-old Rutgers University freshman who committed suicide in September after his gay sexual encounter in his dorm room was broadcast online.

The measure introduced Thursday by Lautenberg, a Democrat, would require colleges that receive federal money to adopt policies that prohibit harassment based on a student's sexual orientation, race, gender and other factors.

It also would provide funding for schools to establish or expand programs to prevent harassment of students.

U.S. Rep. Rush Holt, a fellow New Jersey Democrat, introduced identical legislation in the House of Representatives.