Republicans in the state Senate are urging top leaders in New York to make their appointments to a task force meant to study cyber bullying. 

The appointments for the panel were due earlier this year in January. 

“To give the task force members the time needed to begin their critical work, conduct a thorough investigation and generate effective recommendations to combat cyber-bullying, it is imperative that you make your respective appointments as soon as possible,” the lawmakers, Sens. Peter Oberacker, Anthony Palumbo and George Borrello wrote in the letter. 

New York officials had formed the task force to study cyber bullying and identify its most common victims, which mediums are used and the social and psychological effects. About a third of middle school and high school students nationwide have reported cyber bullying incidents, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

The panel is also due to make recommendations to curtail cyber bullying and assess actions taken in other states. A report is due July 1, 2023. 

The Republicans signing onto the letter wrote they need the time to give the issue due consideration. 

“To give the task force members the time needed to begin their critical work, conduct a thorough investigation and generate effective recommendations to combat cyber-bullying, it is imperative that you make your respective appointments as soon as possible,” the lawmakers wrote.