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HB 636

COLLEGES/UNIVERSITIES: Provides relative to hazing at public postsecondary education institutions (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mark Abraham and 95 co-sponsors

HB 636 strengthens hazing regulations at Louisiana public colleges by establishing clearer definitions, institutional reporting requirements, and penalties to protect students from harmful practices.

Effective date: 08/01/2026.
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Bill Summary · HB 636

Legislative bill overview

HB 636 addresses hazing practices at Louisiana public colleges and universities by establishing regulations, penalties, and institutional accountability measures. The bill aims to strengthen protections for students and clarify institutional responsibilities regarding hazing prevention and reporting.

Why is this important

Hazing causes serious physical and psychological harm to students, with some cases resulting in death or permanent injury. Clear legislative standards help universities implement consistent enforcement mechanisms and provide legal recourse for victims, while establishing uniform penalties across institutions.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: Disagreement over what constitutes hazing versus acceptable traditions or athletic/social bonding activities
  • Institutional liability: Debate over how much responsibility falls on universities versus student organizations, and whether institutions should face financial penalties
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Questions about investigation procedures, evidentiary standards, and whether penalties apply equally to fraternities, sororities, athletic teams, and other groups
  • Due process concerns: Balancing victim protections with accused students' rights to fair disciplinary proceedings

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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