Res. No. 37
Title
Resolution calling upon the New York State Legislature to pass and the Governor to sign, A.5094/S.2552, to amend the Education Law, in relation to hazing, serving alcohol to minors and illegal drug offenses.
Body
By Council Members Cohen, Brannan, Rosenthal, Koo and Yeger
Whereas, Hazing has been banned by 44 states, according to Diverse Education magazine; and
Whereas, Many colleges have taken measures to address hazing, but despite such efforts, it remains prevalent on college campuses; and
Whereas, A comprehensive study by the University of Maine found that 55 percent of students nationwide who joined fraternities, sororities, sports teams, clubs, or other student groups have experienced hazing; and
Whereas, The study also found that half of those who reported hazing experiences were aware of anti-hazing policies at their school; and
Whereas, In addition, the study found that alcohol consumption, humiliation, isolation, sleep-deprivation, and sexual acts are common hazing practices; and
Whereas, An increase in the number of reported hazing incidents, some of which have resulted in death, has reignited efforts by higher education institutions and states to take action against such dangerous practices, according to USA Today; and
Whereas, New York Penal Law prohibits hazing in the State; and
Whereas, Postsecondary institutions in New York State, including New York City, have implemented anti-hazing policies and procedures, as required by State law; and
Whereas, New York Education Law requires colleges to create and implement policies and procedures to address instances involving endangerment of mental or physical health, or forced consumption of liquor or drugs for initiation into or affiliation with any organization; and
Whereas, Several New York State laws including the Penal Law, the New York General Obligations Law and the New York Alcohol and Beverage Control Law prohibit underage...
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