Lansing, MI – State Representative Angela Rigas today introduced House Bill 5480, known as the “Natalia Moore Law,” marking a pioneering step in Michigan’s efforts to combat school bullying. This innovative bill is the first of its kind in the state, mandating school district transfers for students who are victims of unresolved bullying, providing a critical escape route for those trapped in harmful environments.

The legislation honors the memory of 12-year-old Natalia Moore, a talented young hockey player from Middleville, Michigan, who tragically took her own life on January 26, 2025, after enduring months of severe bullying at Thornapple Kellogg Middle School. Despite her family’s repeated reports to school officials, interventions failed to halt the harassment, underscoring the urgent need for systemic change. Natalia, who played for teams like the Wyandotte Warriors, was remembered fondly by the hockey community, with tributes from the Grand Rapids Griffins and NHL fans highlighting her passion and the profound loss felt by many.

Unlike existing anti-bullying policies in Michigan, which focus on investigations and potential consequences for perpetrators, the “Natalia Moore Law” breaks new ground by requiring receiving school districts to accept transfers for nonresident students if parents provide documented evidence of bullying, failed interventions, and ongoing issues. This measure ensures victims aren’t forced to remain in toxic settings, addressing a gap in current laws that has left many families without recourse.

Key provisions of HB 5480 include:

• Mandatory acceptance of transfers based on verified bullying reports and unsuccessful resolutions.
• Prohibition on denying transfers due to a student’s truancy history.
• Requirement for the originating district to share academic records within seven days.
• Liability for schools or officials failing to comply, allowing for civil damages.
• Waiver of tuition fees for these transfers, removing financial barriers.

“This bill represents a historic first for Michigan – no other state law here has ever guaranteed bullying victims the right to transfer districts without obstacles,” said Rep. Angela Rigas, who represents District 79, including parts of Barry County where Thornapple Kellogg Schools is located. “Natalia’s story is a heartbreaking reminder that our current systems often fail our children. By enacting this first-of-its-kind transfer mandate, we’re prioritizing student safety and giving parents the tools to protect their kids from further harm.”

HB 5480 is now in committee and poised for review. Michigan residents are encouraged to contact their legislators in support. For more details, visit the Michigan Legislature website at legislature.mi.gov.

Rep. Rigas and her office can be reached at (517) 373-1403 or AngelaRigas@house.mi.gov.

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