Legislators propose changes in state law to help protect school children from bullying.  Lawmakers held a news conference on Monday to outline House bills sponsored by Rep. Sue Allen, R-Town and Country, and Rep. Sara Lampe, D-Springfield.

Both measures lay out more details to be addressed in schools' bullying polices.  Allen's bill also would create a more specific definition of "cyberbullying" through such means as the Internet and cell phones.

Lampe's legislation also would list various factors such as race, religion and sexual orientation for which bullying would be prohibited.  Efforts to combat school bullying also are backed by the Safe Schools Coalition, which represents about 40 organizations across Missouri.
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