Cuomo signs new law against cyber bullying

ALBANY, N.Y. — Gov, Andrew Cuomo has signed a new law intended to curb online bullying or harassment of students.

The measure, which takes effect next July 1, requires school districts to establish protocols for investigating reports of students bullied through emails, electronic messaging or social networking sites. Steps include staff training, coordination with police when appropriate and telling the community about the school's policies.

It includes cyber bullying that occurs off the school campus when it would cause a student to fear for his or her safety, interfere with their mental or emotional health or interfere with school performance.

According to the governor's office, a 2011 survey of New York high school students shows nearly 18 percent were bullied on school property and 16 percent bullied electronically in 2010.