UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- As part of focused efforts to promote student safety through legislative action in Pennsylvania and across the country, Penn State President Eric Barron announced his support for a federal bill that, if passed into law, would require universities nationwide to report hazing under the Clery Act and provide educational programming on the dangers of hazing.
The Report and Educate About Campus Hazing (REACH) Act was introduced today (June 16) by Patrick Meehan, U.S. Congressman from Pennsylvania's 7th district. The bill also is sponsored by U.S. Congresswoman Marcia Fudge, of Ohio's 11th district.
"The University community continues to mourn the loss of Timothy Piazza and our thoughts remain with his family and friends. Penn State supports the REACH Act and greatly appreciates Congressman Meehan’s and Congresswoman Fudge's leadership on this important national issue. Our support for this legislation aligns with our commitment to implement significant reforms as a leader in ensuring the safety and well-being of our students, and of the entire University community."
Hazing is illegal and is not acceptable behavior for any student group at Penn State. When Penn State is alerted to allegations of hazing, the University takes immediate action to investigate and impose significant sanctions, including application of the student conduct process where appropriate. Specific to Greek-letter organizations, Penn State announced a comprehensive set of safety initiatives for Greek-letter organizations on June 2, including immediate revocation of University recognition for hazing that involves alcohol or physical abuse, and supporting enhanced educational measures in addition to those already in place. On June 11, Barron announced the formation of a Greek-life response team, which has been charged with leading implementation of the new measures. Penn State's leadership will continue discussions with state officials on ways to strengthen penalties for hazing, especially hazing that includes alcohol, and on increased statewide educational initiatives on the dangers of hazing and dangerous drinking.