Wolf signs law for stricter penalties against hazing

Gov. Tom Wolf on Friday signed Senate Bill 1090, the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-hazing Law, which gives stricter penalties toward hazing and makes sure schools have policies to protect students.

The new law passed with unanimous support in the General Assembly. It provides measures to strengthen penalties for hazing, including a felony for aggravated hazing that results in serious injury or death. It will also hold organizations responsible for promoting hazing, require schools to have anti-hazing rules, enforcement policies and preventative measures, and create a safe-harbor provision to protect students from prosecution for calling police or help.

“Students come to our 14 state system universities seeking a college experience that will positively shape their lives forever. That can happen only when everyone in the university community understands the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment. We’re proud of our track record in that regard and are proud to stand in support of this legislation,” said Dan Greenstein, chancellor of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education in a press release.

Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old Pennsylvania State University student, died in February 2017 at the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. His parents, Jim and Evelyn Piazza, were with Wolf when he signed the bill.

“Tim’s tragic experience has led to real change. There is no place for hazing on our college campuses. And together, we will protect students and hold accountable those who engage in it,” Wolf said in the release.

Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman (R-Centre County) said the law emphasizes the prevention, enforcement and transparency to end hazing in Pennsylvania. He commends Piazza’s family for their strength and courage in the face of tragedy.

“Act 80 provides tools for prosecutors, parents, students and schools to see where the problems are and punish those who irresponsibly put people in harm’s way,” Corman said in the release. “This law will be a model for changing anti-hazing laws throughout the nation with the Piazzas’ efforts leading the way.”