Committee advances 'Jack Reed Law' to require anti-bullying policies in nonpublic schools after parents' emotional testimony

The committee heard moving testimony from Bill and Dr. Elizabeth Reed, parents who said their son Jack died by suicide after prolonged bullying and what they described as inadequate school responses. The Reeds urged the legislature to require nonpublic schools to adopt clear anti-harassment and bullying policies and reporting procedures comparable to public schools.

"On 04/30/2022, we lost our son Jack to suicide," Bill Reed said, describing how online and in-person bullying escalated, how reports to the school did not produce timely protections, and how the family later learned the school had cleared Jack of allegations but had not told him. The Reeds said the bill requires nonpublic schools to publicly disclose anti-harassment policies, provide reporting channels, conduct prompt and fair investigations, share appropriate outcome information with families, and take steps to protect students and prevent retaliation.

Supporters argued the measure creates basic safeguards without dictating curriculum or interfering with schools' operations. Committee members praised the Reeds for sharing their story; the committee moved the bill forward on a bipartisan vote.