Today's world sadly needs anti-bullying legislation

In a way, it's kind of sad that a bill on bullying is even needed.

When I was growing up, treating someone with disrespect — whether it was my parents, my siblings or classmates — would have earned me a one-way ticket to my bedroom.

No discussion. No debate. No early release. There also would have been a letter of apology and a host of other consequences.

It didn't take long to decide that it misbehaving — on any level — just wasn't worth it.

You knew there'd be a price to pay and, unless you really believed in something, it just wasn't worth it to do something intentionally stupid.

But, unfortunately, a lot of kids aren't getting that message at home. Which is why the Senate Education Committee stepped in, approving a bill that seeks to stop bullying at school and on the Internet.

The measure would make bullying a legal infraction that could result in a ticket from police and a $100 fine, according to a story by The Associated Press. It also directs school district trustees to prescribe rules for disciplining students who harass or intimidate others verbally, by phone or by computer.

The bill defines harassment, intimidation and bullying and calls for school officials to suspend or expel bullies.

Caroline Lobsinger is the managing editor of the Daily Bee.