Pasadena lawmaker's bill targets hazing in higher education – Pasadena Now

State Representative Chris Holden

In response to the continuing threat of hazing-related deaths in higher education, state Rep. Chris Holden, who represents Pasadena and the 41st California Congressional District, introduced a bill, AB 2193, aimed at combating dangerous hazing practices. submitted.

The bill, recently passed by the Congressional Higher Education Committee, aims to hold educational institutions accountable for their role in addressing and preventing hazing incidents.

Holden said in a statement: “For decades now, there has been a steady stream of fatal hazing incidents across the country.'' “No part of participating in the college experience should be lethal. Parents should have the peace of mind that someone is invested in making sure these dangerous activities don't occur. I need it.”

AB 2193, formally known as the Hazing Liability Act, would impose penalties on educational institutions if they were found to be directly involved or should have known about dangerous hazing practices by affiliated organizations. We are proposing to allow civil lawsuits to be brought against the government. This bill aims to encourage proactive measures and strengthen student safety by holding educational institutions accountable for the consequences of hazing.

Holden said the legislation comes in response to lackluster efforts by many agencies to proactively address hazing. Indiana United Press reported that from 1961 to 2017, there was at least one hazing-related death per year.

Hazing can include a variety of activities, from forced drinking to physical abuse, public humiliation and more, and can lead to severe long-term trauma and even death, Holden said. .

“I stand in solidarity with the victims of hazing,” Holden declared. “I’m here ready and actively listening to find out how we can make your educational experience memorable and safe.”