Assemblyman Joe DeStefano (R,C,I-Medford) is pleased to announce that his resolution to proclaim the month of April as Bullying Prevention Month passed the Assembly today. DeStefano has been a vocal advocate for increasing awareness to prevent bullying.

“Today, I whole-heartily supported this resolution to prevent bullying,” said DeStefano. “Almost 30 percent of students are either bullies or victims of bullying. People who are bullied are at greater risk of substance abuse, academic problems and violence. We cannot passively stand by any longer. I am encouraging all New Yorkers to raise awareness and practice kindness toward all people.”

Over 160,000 children stay home from school because they fear being bullied. Throughout the last year, 20 percent of high school students in the U.S reported being bullied at school, and 15 percent say they were bullied online.