Bullies in Hanna face severe punishment, and a new bylaw means those who cheer them on could too.

The new anti-bullying bylaw came into effect last month and can carry a fine of up to $1,000 or six months in jail for offenders.

It defines bullying as “Any communication that causes a victim to reasonably in all the circumstances, feel bullied.”

A bystander clause also carries a $100 fine for bystanders who do nothing to stop it.

The RCMP tells The Calgary Sun the new rules allow them to actually act on any concerns from parents rather than just provide advice, before it escalates into something even more serious.