New York near deal to combat cyber bullies

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - A state official says New York could announce as early as this week a legislative deal to crack down on cyber bullying in schools through social media.

The official tells The Associated Press that Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver are planning to pass the measure by the end of the regular session June 21.

The official spoke on the condition of anonymity because the deal isn't yet final.

The bill combines measures sought by the Assembly's Democratic majority and the Senate's Republican majority.

Each chamber seeks to crack down on threatening or insulting e-mails, instant messages and postings to social media including Facebook.

More than 30 states have cyber harassment measures.