Hazing Laws
	
ANTI-HAZING STATUTES

The following is a compilation of current state statutes that outlaw hazing. 
Typically, statutes prohibit any willful action that recklessly or intentionally 
endangers the physical health of a student; some statutes include the mental 
health of a student as well. Many statutes enumerate certain acts which cons-
titute hazing, i.e. sleep deprivations, forced calisthenics and drug and alcohol
use. Although a particular state may not have enacted a specific hazing statute, 
often actions that constitute hazing may be prosecuted under other criminal 
statutes, such as assault or reckless endangerment statues.

In the vast majority of states, consent by the pledge or new member is not a 
defense to hazing.

Georgia - § 16-5-61
Misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature - prohibits any possible activity
which endangers the physical health of a student, regardless of a student's 
willing participation, in connection with initiation.

South Carolina - §§ 16-3-510 to 16-3-540 and 59-101-200
Misdemeanor with up to $500 in fines and/or imprisonment up to 12 months. At 
state supported institutions of higher learning the president is authorized at
his or her discretion to suspend or expel transgressors. Failure to report 
hazing is also unlawful. Fraternal organizations with a minimum age limit of 
over 21 that do not operate in connection with an educational institution are exempt.