Parents in Penn Hills can be fined for child's bullying

Parents in Penn Hills can now be held responsible if their child is caught bullying, harassing or intimidating someone outside of school.

Penn Hills Borough Council unanimously approved a new ordinance that would allow for parents to be fined up to $600 plus court costs if they fail to resolve a bullying situation within 90 days. Parents would first get a written warning.

If the parents cannot afford the fine, they would be required to do community service.

“It’s a good idea, but to try and enforce it? And hold the parents responsible?” said resident David Kun.

The ordinance applies to any child under 18 years old.

“I think everybody should be able to control their child,” said resident Asia Russell. “And if not, then you need to get the help that your child needs so they can behave.”

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The ordinance applies to any child under the of 18.

“I feel this is a great thing; we are trying to stop the bullying anyway we can,” said Penn Hill School District board President Erin Vecchio. “And if the school district works with the municipality, we can get it done faster.”

Cox Media Group