The Iowa Legislature is trying to make schools safe and welcoming for all kids.

We are acting in response to Governor Vilsack’s call for an “anti-bullying” bill.

Iowans are known for both our tolerance and for the high value we place on educational opportunity.

Every child in Iowa is important and we believe that none of them should not be subjected to bullying, violence or mental abuse.

Unfortunately for gay students — and straight students accused of being gay — our schools often fall short of our expectations.

About 50 percent of those harassed and bullied in school will not go on to college.

Regardless of whether they are gay or straight, Iowa simply can’t afford to leave these kids behind.

Iowa schools need a statewide policy that clearly defines harassment and prohibits discrimination based upon age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability.

That’s what Governor Vilsack proposed.

Republican leaders are instead offering a version that is meaningless because it does not contain the words “sexual orientation.”

Let’s not fool ourselves. Sexual orientation and perceived sexual orientation are the number one causes of harassment in Iowa schools.

You know it. I know it and, most importantly, gay and straight school kids who are bullied know it all too well.

Many of us can remember a time when, as students ourselves, we failed to stand up for kids who were being picked on, for whatever reason.

Let’s do the right thing today by urging our Legislature to pass the toughest, most complete anti-bullying legislation possible.

Matt McCoy

State senator