New Bill Could Expand Florida Anti-Hazing Law
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TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/AP) — It's a busy time in Tallahassee now that the Florida Legislative Session has begun.
The state's anti-hazing law could be expanded under a bill moving through the Florida Legislature.
The Senate Criminal Justice Committee unanimously approved a measure Monday that would make people who organize hazing culpable if someone is seriously injured or dies, even if the organizer didn't participate in the event.
It also prohibits hazing of former members of fraternities or other organizations. Current law addresses pledges and active members.
The vote came after the parents of Andrew Coffey made a tearful plea in support of the bill. The Florida State University student died of alcohol poisoning in November 2017 at an off-campus fraternity party. Investigators say the 20-year-old was coerced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon.
The bill provides immunity for the first person who calls 911 to get help for a hazing victim, even if they were participants in the activity.
(© Copyright 2019 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
