DEPARTMENT: Government and Public Affairs
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Jeff Coyle, Director, Government and Public Affairs
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: City Wide
SUBJECT:
A City Resolution in support of “David’s Law.”
SUMMARY:
This Resolution calls for support of SB179 and HB305, known as “David’s Law.”
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
David Molak, a 16 year old San Antonio sophomore, Eagle Scout, avid Spurs fan, fitness enthusiast, and fisherman, took his own life after being the target of bullying at his school. With the proliferation of social media, bullies have become emboldened in their action to shame victims. As a result, Texas Senator Jose Menendez introduced SB179 and a bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced the companion bill, HB305, known as “David’s Law.” The goal is to fight back against student harassment, bullying, and cyberbullying by giving those affected a channel for reporting such incidents. In supporting this legislation, San Antonio takes a stand in proclaiming our city an anti-bullying community. This resolution aims to boost the efforts in Austin as well as encourage other cities to join together in giving a stronger voice to the victims of bullying.
On September 1, 2016, City Council approved the City of San Antonio’s 2017 State Legislative Program for the 85th Texas Legislative Session. The program was developed with input from City departments, public and private-sector partners, our legislative consultants in Austin and the City Council’s Intergovernmental Relations Subcommittee. On September 1, 2016, City Council approved the City of San Antonio’s 2017 State Legislative Program for the 85th Texas Legislative Session. The program was developed with input from City departments, public and private-sector partners, our legislative consultants in Austin and the City Council’s Intergovernmental Relations Subcommittee. The Legislative Program provides direction to staff on positions to take on proposed legislation and aligns with the priorities of the City Council: economic development, transportation and infrastructure investment, the ability to manage growth through the implementation of SA Tomorrow and protection of our military installations. Adoption of legislation outside of the Council approved program is to be reviewed by the Intergovernmental Relations Council Subcommittee.
ISSUE:
A Resolution in support of SB179 and HB305, known as “David’s Law.”
ALTERNATIVES:
City Council could choose not to support this resolution.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends this resolution go to the Intergovernmental Relations Subcommittee for consideration.