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As stories like Megan Meier's capture the interest of the media and the hearts of parents nationwide, lawmakers have begun to pass laws aimed at stemming the rising tide of "peer-to-peer" harassment and threats that is taking place on the web. Legislators, educators and child advocates agree on the need for guidelines outlining how to prevent and punish cyberbullying. They say the behavior has gone unchecked for years, with few existing laws or policies on the books explaining how to stop or remedy it.

Most of the laws currently being considered in the states are aimed at requiring school districts to develop policies on cyberbullying and to include cyberbullying in their anti-harassment policies. Thirteen states have passed such laws and more are considering similar measures this legislative session.

At first glance, this solution may seem reasonable, which is probably why so many politicians have latched onto it. But big headlines don't necessarily translate into a safer Internet, and lawmakers need to be sensitive to the risks of legislating free speech and placing the entire policing burden on school districts. In the end, how much authority do schools have to monitor, regulate and punish activities occurring off school property, the domain in which cyberbullying most often occurs?

Experience and common sense suggest that education and good old-fashioned parenting are far better approaches than regulating free speech and social norms. Yet, when name-calling and taunting cross the line and become harassment and intimidation, authorities must step in with tough penalties, not just a school policy that forbids the practice. After all, the effects of cyberbullying can be serious. Victims can become withdrawn, avoid friends and want to skip school altogether. In extreme cases, victims become depressed and may even consider or attempt suicide.

We owe it to our kids to teach them online safety, and it's just as important for parents to learn the risks of the Internet in order to help their family have a safe and secure online experience. Stop Child Predators applauds state lawmakers and educators for focusing on the growing issue of cyberbullying. We look forward to working in 2009 with parents, teachers, and legislators to craft pragmatic solutions that balance a desire to protect free speech with an understanding of the necessity of protecting children from online harassment.

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Stacie D. Rumenap is the executive director of Stop Child Predators, a non-profit organization in Washington, DC that prevents the sexual exploitation of children and protects the rights of crime victims. For more information, visit www.stopchildpredators.org.

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Note -- The opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions, views, and/or philosophy of GOPUSA.

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