INDIANAPOLIS- Today the State Senate approved legislation that would require the Indiana Department of Education to develop guidelines that schools may use in professional development activities concerning dating. The bill would require the Department of Education to include in its guidelines the warning signs of dating violence, the basic principles of dating violence prevention, and methods to foster parental education and outreach. Senate Bill 316, authored by State Senator Earline S. Rogers (D-Gary), was approved by a vote of 41 to 8.

"It's important that we educate young people about the behaviors of dating violence and encourage parental attention to these issues," said Rogers.

According to data from Children's Bureau Inc., one in five teens in a serious relationship report being physically abused by their partner. One in three teens report knowing a friend or peer who has been punched, slapped, choked, or physically hurt by his or her partner. A 2005 study also found that one in five high school girls report having been physically and/or sexually abused by a dating partner.

The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

For more information on Senator Rogers call 1-800-382-9467 or visit www.senatedemocrats.in.gov

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