State Rep. Angela Rigas today spoke to the House Education and Workforce Committee in support of her legislative plan designed to help children in Michigan escape situations of bullying in schools. 

House Bill 5480, known as the Natalia Moore Law, was introduced by Rigas in January. The bill commemorates 12-year-old Natalia Moore, who tragically took her own life after she endured relentless bullying at her school. Despite repeated reports to school officials, interventions did not prevent the harassment.  

The law would allow the parent or guardian of a student experiencing bullying to transfer to a surrounding school district, regardless of whether that student is a resident in that district. Importantly, it would prohibit schools from denying the transfer due to excessive truancy, which is often a direct result of bullying.  

“Without a legislative solution, we are subjecting these children to repeated instances of abuse,” said Rigas (R-Caledonia). “Even with clear documentation of ceaseless harassment, parents are having their requests to transfer their child denied. We need to take strong action to protect our children while holding these districts accountable. No child should be afraid to go to school because of bullying.” 

Mira Moore, Natalia’s mother, also gave testimony at the committee, along with Heather Strong, a close family friend, and Jeanette Williamson, the wife of Natalia’s hockey coach and the mother of a teammate.  

“Our laws currently lack a defined pathway for kids to escape these situations,” Rigas continued. “We unfortunately know the tragic consequences that can occur when these issues are not taken seriously. Our children are some of the most vulnerable among us, and we have a clear duty both as legislators and community members to guarantee their safety.”