Student Conduct

Hazing

In 2006, the California Legislature enacted a law that makes hazing a potential felony, that is punishable with up to one year in prison, $5,000 in fines, and liability for injury to any persons harmed. The liability for hazing also applies to student organizations, and not just to those who directly participated in the hazing acts.

Hazing, or conspiracy to haze, is defined in Education Code Sections 32050 and 32051 as:

"Hazing" includes any method or initiation or pre-initiation into a student organization, or any pastime or amusement engaged in with respect to such an organization which causes, or is likely to cause, bodily danger, physical harm, or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm, to any student or other person attending any school, community college, college, university or other educational institution in this state; but the term "hazing" does not include customary athletic events or other similar contests or competitions.

A group of students acting together may be considered a student organization' for purposes of this section whether or not they are officially recognized. Neither the express or implied consent of the victim of hazing, nor the lack of active participation while hazing is going on is a defense. Apathy or acquiescence in the presence of hazing is not a neutral act, and is also a violation of this section.

More information about hazing and the law.

Hazing Prevention

Campus Recognized Sorority and Fraternity Transparency Act (AB-524)

Click here to learn more about AB-524 and to access the CSUMB 2023 Campus Recognized Sorority and Fraternity Transparency Act Report.

Report Hazing

Use the Concerning Behavior Referral/Reporting Form to anonymously report hazing or any other concerning behavior.

Take the Pledge

Hazing has no home in fraternities and sororities. Stand up to hazing by taking a personal pledge to prevent, stop, and report hazing. Submit your pledge on Hazing Prevention today!

Hazing Prevention Resources

Statement on Hazing

As of 2025, federal law mandates that institutions of higher education disclose hazing incidents in compliance with the Stop Campus Hazing Act, which enhances transparency and accountability around hazing-related misconduct. This law requires colleges and universities that receive federal financial aid to publicly report hazing incidents as part of their annual campus safety disclosures under the Clery Act. Institutions must also maintain a publicly accessible, searchable database of hazing violations, including details such as the organization involved, the nature of the violation, and any disciplinary action taken. These measures are intended to inform students and families while helping to prevent future incidents.
Within the California State University (CSU) system, hazing is addressed with additional legal rigor under state law. In 2006, the California Legislature passed legislation making hazing a potential felony. Individuals found guilty of hazing may face up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $5,000, and civil liability for injuries sustained by victims. Importantly, this liability extends beyond the individuals directly responsible for the hazing acts to include student organizations as entities, holding them accountable for the conduct of their members.

California Education Code Sections 32050 and 32051 define hazing broadly to include any initiation or pre-initiation activity, pastime, or amusement connected to a student organization that causes, or is likely to cause, bodily harm, physical danger, or personal degradation resulting in physical or mental harm. These definitions apply regardless of whether the student organization is officially recognized, and even if the hazed individual consents to participate. Moreover, passivity or failure to intervene—such as standing by while hazing occurs—also constitutes a violation under this law. The law makes clear that hazing is a serious offense with both criminal and institutional consequences, reinforcing the CSU system’s commitment to student safety and accountability.