A new Louisiana proposal could bring some of the toughest hazing consequences the state has ever considered, and it could matter well beyond Baton Rouge. House Bill 636 would let colleges and universities permanently remove a fraternity, sorority, sports team, band, club, or other student organization from campus if a hazing incident leads to a student’s death.
The legislation comes after the 2025 death of Southern University student Caleb Wilson and is now heading to the House floor for more debate.
Why This Bill Is Getting So Much Attention
According to Louisiana Radio Network, Wilson died after being repeatedly punched in the chest during an off-campus fraternity hazing ritual. His death helped spark the creation of the Caleb Wilson Hazing Prevention Task Force, which reviewed whether Louisiana’s current anti-hazing laws go far enough. That task force was formed by the Legislature in 2025 and issued recommendations earlier this year.
Wilson’s mother, Urania Wilson, told lawmakers she does not want another family to experience what hers did. Jason Hughes, who chairs the task force, said the goal is to make sure Caleb’s death is not in vain. Those comments have helped keep the issue front and center as lawmakers consider stronger penalties.
What Would Change Under HB 636
The bill by Baton Rouge Representative Vanessa LaFleur would go beyond punishing individuals. Louisiana’s 2017 hazing laws were passed after the death of LSU student Max Gruver and largely focused on people directly involved. This proposal would allow consequences for the entire organization and would also require hazing incidents to be reported to the university…