The Michigan Senate passed legislation that requires school districts to develop anti-bullying policies.

Michigan would join at least 45 other states that have laws requiring public schools to adopt anti-bullying policies under legislation passed by the Senate. The bill was approved by a 26-11, party-line vote and now advances to the House.

Democrats say the measure wouldn't protect students and want a more detailed measure that outlines reasons students can't be bullied, such as sexual orientation, race and weight.

Republicans argue that all students would be equally protected under the proposal. But Democrats were angered by the new language, saying it goes in the opposite direction of stopping bullying.

The policies would apply to cyber-bullying, but only cyber-bullying that occurs using a device owned or under the control of a school district. Epling said that concerns him because most cyber-bullying happens on personal electronic devices.