Pasadena Assemblymember’s Bill Targets Hazing in Higher Education

In response to the persistent threat of hazing-related fatalities in higher education, State Assemblymember Chris Holden, who represents Pasadena and the 41st California Assembly District, has introduced AB 2193, a bill aimed at combating dangerous hazing practices.

The legislation, which recently passed the Assembly’s Higher Education Committee, seeks to hold educational institutions accountable for their role in addressing and preventing hazing incidents.

“There are endless fatal hazing cases that have happened all across the country spanning decades back,” Holden said in a statement. “No part of participating in the college experience should be deadly. Parents need the security of knowing that someone is invested in stopping these dangerous activities from happening.”

AB 2193 is officially known as the Hazing Accountability Act and proposes to allow civil action to be taken against educational institutions if they are found to have direct involvement or should have known of the dangerous hazing practices of affiliated organizations. By holding educational institutions accountable for the consequences of hazing, the bill aims to incentivize proactive measures and enhance student safety.

Holden said the legislation comes in response to a lackluster effort by many institutions to address hazing in a preventative manner. The Indiana United Press reported at least one hazing-related death per year between 1961 and 2017.

Hazing can include anything from forced alcohol consumption to physical abuse, public humiliation, and an assortment of other activities that can lead to severe long-term trauma and, too often, death, Holden said.

“I stand in solidarity with victims of hazing,” Holden affirmed. “I am here, prepared and actively listening to how your educational experience can be memorable and safe.”