Caleb Wilson. Photo credit: Southern University Marching Band
House Bill 279, known as the Caleb Wilson Act, has been filed for the upcoming legislative session. Sponsored by New Orleans Representative Delisha Boyd, the bill requires college freshmen to complete a one-credit-hour anti-hazing course within their first two semesters of membership.
“Our goal was to educate the children being hazed by letting them know that you can refuse some things and still be able to join these organizations. It’s an education bill that a lot of members of my community requested.”
Boyd says the bill was introduced after 20-year-old Caleb Wilson died after he was punched multiple times in the chest while pledging Omega Psi Phi fraternity at Southern University in February. Three men were arrested, with one facing a manslaughter charge.
“I don’t think anyone left their dorm that night with the intention of killing anybody, and so, if they don’t understand one, what could happen from hazing someone and two, to say no I’ m not going anywhere with you tonight that’s ok and they still will be allowed to join those organizations.”
The proposed law expands on current requirements by formalizing hazing prevention education. It is compared to the 2018 Max Gruver Law, which increased criminal penalties for hazing, but the Caleb Wilson Act focuses more on education and prevention rather than punishment. Boyd says this is a bipartisan “feel-good” bill.
“I can’t imagine anyone would be against educating our children. Because hazing affects everybody. Party does not matter.”
It will take effect in the fall of 2025 if passed.
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