7 Hazing Tragedies That Spurred Harsher Anti-Hazing Laws in 9 States

Timothy Piazza – New Jersey

Also influenced by the death of Timothy Piazza, who grew up in New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy signed Timothy J. Piazza’s Law on Aug. 24, 2021.

The new law requires all public and private middle and high schools, as well as colleges and universities, to draw up anti-hazing policies, along with penalties for violations that could include withholding of a diploma, suspension, or expulsion.

The new measures also establish that hazing resulting in serious injury or death will be considered a third-degree crime, up from a fourth-degree. A conviction will carry a prison sentence of up to five years, a fine as high as $15,000, or both.

Before the new law was passed, a hazing conviction carried a prison term of up to 18 months, a $10,000 fine, or both.

Read more about the law here.

(Photo credit: pabrady63, Adobe Stock)