Group Calls for Tougher Laws

Birmingham, Alabama – (AP) - A Birmingham group is calling on state officials to strengthen laws against teachers who have inappropriate relationships with students.
The group, called Citizens for Better Schools, held a news conference outside the State Department of Education headquarters in Montgomery on Monday.
Executive director Ronald Jackson said the organization was contacted two weeks ago by a mother whose 17-year-old son had an inappropriate relationship with his 38-year-old Advanced Placement history teacher.
Jackson said he was surprised to learn that state laws against carnal knowledge of a minor only cover victims 16 and younger. The group wants legislation passed to cover all students.