Bill > SB944

This bill significantly strengthens Oklahoma's anti-hazing laws by comprehensively defining hazing, establishing new criminal and civil penalties, and creating mandatory prevention and reporting requirements for educational institutions. The bill defines hazing as any activity that recklessly or intentionally endangers a student's mental or physical health during initiation or affiliation with an organization, including activities like forced consumption of substances, physical brutality, extreme mental stress, or prolonged social exclusion. It establishes both misdemeanor and felony offenses for hazing, with penalties ranging from fines up to $15,000 and potential imprisonment up to 10 years if the hazing results in serious bodily injury or death. The legislation requires educational institutions to develop and implement hazing prevention education plans, mandates public reporting of hazing violations, and creates an Anti-Hazing Revolving Fund to support educational programs. Notably, the bill prohibits using consent or traditional practices as a defense and provides immunity from prosecution for individuals who report hazing in good faith or seek emergency medical assistance. The new law will take effect on November 1, 2025, giving institutions time to prepare for the comprehensive new requirements.

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http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb944&Session=2600