Rogers legislation focuses on preventing dating violence

Bill would help schools to develop policies and provide education concerning dating violence

INDIANAPOLIS - Legislation authored by State Senator Earline S. Rogers (D-Gary) that would require school corporations to enact policies and educate young people about dating violence was amended and approved by the Senate Education and Career Development Committee by a vote of 8 to 1 today.

As amended, Senate Bill (SB) 316 would require the Department of Education to develop guidelines that schools may use in professional development activities concerning dating. This training must include the warning signs of dating violence; the basic principles of dating violence prevention; and methods to foster parental education and outreach.

"By educating young people about the behaviors of dating violence and empowering them to address it, we can break the cycle of violence early and keep it from recurring during their adult years," said Rogers.

According to data from Clarian Health, 11.6 percent of Indiana high school youth reported being hit or physically hurt by their boyfriend or girlfriend; approximately 13.2 percent of females and 3.2 percent of males reported being physically forced into sexual relations.

Nationwide, 1 in 5 female high school students report being physically and/or sexually abused by a dating partner.

For more information on Senator Rogers, her legislative agenda or other State Senate business call 1-800-382-9467 or visit www.senatedemocrats.in.gov.