diff --git a/.github/ISSUE_TEMPLATE/before_reporting.md b/.github/ISSUE_TEMPLATE/before_reporting.md
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@@ -0,0 +1,11 @@
+---
+name: Before Reporting an Issue
+about: Read this before submitting an issue
+title: ''
+labels: ''
+assignees: ''
+---
+
+# BEFORE REPORTING AN ISSUE!
+
+Reporting an "issue" is only for bugs. You must first verify it is an actual bug by asking [in the discord](https://discord.com/invite/nuR9zZ2nsh). If you have a feature request or question, [ask in the discord](https://discord.com/invite/nuR9zZ2ns). Github issues is ONLY for verified bugs in the code. There are many members happy to help you out [in the discord](https://discord.com/invite/nuR9zZ2ns), so please check there first.
diff --git a/.github/ISSUE_TEMPLATE/bug_report.md b/.github/ISSUE_TEMPLATE/bug_report.md
new file mode 100644
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+name: Bug Report
+description: File a bug report
+title: "[Bug]: "
+labels: 
+  - bug
+body:
+  - type: markdown
+    attributes:
+      value: >
+        Thanks for taking the time to fill out this bug report!
+        
+        Before submitting, please make sure you've read our [important information about reporting issues](link-to-before_reporting.md).
+  - type: checkboxes
+    id: terms
+    attributes:
+      label: Preflight Checklist
+      description: Please ensure you've completed these before submitting
+      options:
+        - label: I have verified this is an actual bug by asking in the Discord
+          required: true
+        - label: I understand that GitHub issues are ONLY for verified bugs in the code
+          required: true
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diff --git a/.github/ISSUE_TEMPLATE/config.yml b/.github/ISSUE_TEMPLATE/config.yml
new file mode 100644
index 00000000..24cabf10
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+++ b/.github/ISSUE_TEMPLATE/config.yml
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+blank_issues_enabled: false
+contact_links:
+  - name: Read Before Reporting an Issue
+    url: https://github.com/ostris/ai-toolkit/blob/main/.github/ISSUE_TEMPLATE/before_reporting.md
+    about: Please read this important information before submitting an issue.
\ No newline at end of file