New Louisiana Bill Aims to Curb Hazing Through Mandatory Education
“The Caleb Wilson Act” honors Southern University student whose death prompted call for reform
BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana lawmakers are set to consider a new piece of legislation targeting hazing on college campuses in response to the death of a Southern University student earlier this year.
House Bill 279, titled The Caleb Wilson Act, is named in memory of 19-year-old Caleb Wilson, who died in February following an alleged hazing incident involving a campus fraternity. The bill, introduced by State Representative Delisha Boyd (D–New Orleans), seeks to prevent similar tragedies by mandating anti-hazing education for incoming students and campus organization members.
If passed, the legislation would require all first-time freshmen, student-athletes, members of fraternities and sororities, and college band members to complete a one-hour anti-hazing course. Institutions would also be required to provide the course materials to the parents or guardians of students who are minors.
“I wanted something proactive — something that teaches our young people it’s okay to say no,” Boyd said. “And for those who might consider hazing, to understand that one bad decision can destroy multiple lives.”
The bill builds on existing law. In 2018, Louisiana enacted the Max Gruver Act — named after an LSU student who died in a separate hazing incident — which made hazing a felony. While the Gruver law emphasizes punishment, the Caleb Wilson Act shifts the focus to prevention through education and early awareness.
“For one second, I don’t believe anybody involved in that night thought someone would die,” Boyd said. “That’s why this course must clearly explain what hazing is, what the consequences are, and how to speak up before it’s too late.”
Boyd, who has remained in close contact with Wilson’s family, said the legislation is about protecting students and reshaping campus culture. Her long-term vision is to see the course adopted as a graduation requirement at Louisiana colleges and universities.
“We send our children to college to be educated and cared for — not to bury them,” Boyd said. “This bill is about creating a culture of accountability, safety, and compassion.”
The Caleb Wilson Act will be debated in the upcoming 2025 Louisiana legislative session, which convenes later this month.
