The University of Michigan is investigating four fraternities and two sororities, and Michigan State University Greeks are rewriting rules of conduct, amid concerns that hazing and parties are putting students and the time-honored tradition of fraternal groups on campus at risk. The crackdown follows laws passed by the Michigan Legislature earlier this year that make hazing a crime and lawsuits that have resulted in significant awards against fraternities that sponsored drinking parties that led to accidents. Greek organizations in Michigan and across the country are investigating allegations of drinking, hazing and other behavior they fear shows the organizations in a bad light and risks more lawsuits. As a result, the organizations are increasingly getting tough on members and activities.
Hazing rules
- In May, Gov. Jennifer Granholm signed legislation that makes hazing a crime. Hazing that results in physical injury can be punished by 93 days to five years in prison, depending on the severity of injury.
- Hazing that causes death can carry up to a 15-year prison sentence.
- Michigan became the 44th sate to enact an anti-hazing law.
- Hazing is defined as actions that endanger the physical health or safety of someone for the purpose of being initiated into a group or maintaining membership.
- Hazing includes actions such as physical brutality, sleep deprivation, confinement in small spaces, calisthenics that pose risk of harm and forcing someone to ingest food, liquid, alcohol and drugs.
U-M, MSU get tough on frats, sororities - 11/26/04
