State Law
Louisiana has a statewide, zero-tolerance approach to hazing, with anti-hazing laws and uniform policy guidance for Louisiana institutions.
How the law defines hazing
Under Louisiana law, hazing is an intentional, knowing, or reckless act directed against another person when both of the following apply:
- The person knew or should have known that the act endangers the physical health or safety of the other person or causes severe emotional distress.
- The act was associated with pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, participating in, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization.
Hazing includes physical brutality, dangerous physical activity, forced consumption of food or substances (including alcohol or drugs), and activity that requires someone to commit a crime or another act of hazing. Normal, customary athletic or military training activities sanctioned by the institution are not considered hazing.
At publicly funded Louisiana institutions, hazing in any form is prohibited. Organizations must report hazing incidents to their institution, and institutions must report alleged hazing to law enforcement without redacting names or details.
Anti-hazing legislation
The Louisiana Board of Regents maintains a current overview of Louisiana's anti-hazing legislation, including:
Penalty
Criminal hazing under La. R.S. 14:40.8 may be punished by fines, imprisonment, or both, with enhanced penalties when hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Organizations and institutions may also face fines, loss of public funds, and loss of recognition. Students who violate La. R.S. 17:1801 may be expelled, suspended, or dismissed for at least one academic period.
Credits: Acts 2018, No. 635, Secs. 1 and 2; Acts 2018, No. 640, Sec. 1; Acts 2019, No. 382, Secs. 1 and 2. Louisiana Revised Statutes 14:40.8 and 17:1801.
Hazing is a crime. Report it.
Reports can be made anonymously through the G Safe app or by calling GSUPD.