Edward Rath announces passage of law prohibiting cyberbullying in Erie County

Erie County Legislator Edward A. Rath III announced that a local law he sponsored prohibiting cyberbullying in Erie County was approved during the legislature’s Feb. 16 session. Local law enforcement officials now have another tool available to them when responding to threats or harassment made online through websites, cell phones or other means.

“I am pleased that this local law was approved unanimously and that the legislature took action to protect our youth,” Rath said. “As the father of three children, I know firsthand how important it is that we do everything in our power to ensure their safety.

“Advancements in technology have made bullying hard to escape. I see this local law working as a deterrent and force potential offenders to reconsider what they write online or text. In the event someone is victim to cyberbullying, we now have the ability to hold offenders accountable,” he continued. “Cyberbullying is a pervasive issue that affects our community and Erie County is once again taking on a leadership role and responding to a serious issue. I hope that, in response to the vote taken today, that Albany will seriously consider passing a statewide law.”

State Assemblywoman Jane Corwin, who has been a supporter of a statewide law, also attended the session. “This is a big step forward for Erie County in protecting our children on social networks,” she said. “Bullying now goes beyond the classroom, and now, more than ever, it is important for children who are bullied and harassed online to have a means of protection. This is a very important issue that I have sponsored legislation on in Albany, along with my colleagues in the Western New York delegation; we will push to make this a statewide initiative.”

For more information, contact Rath at 858-8676 or email edward.rath@erie.gov.