Stop Campus Hazing Act

Creating a campus culture rooted in safety, dignity and mutual respect is a top priority for the University of Missouri System. Every student deserves to learn and grow in an environment free from harm, and we all share responsibility in making that a reality.  

As part of this commitment, the University is taking deliberate steps to prevent hazing and ensure accountability across our campuses. In response to the Stop Campus Hazing Act, enacted in December 2024, we are strengthening federally mandated practices that include clear reporting processes, annual disclosure of hazing incidents, and the integration of evidence-based prevention strategies. 

To support this commitment, it is essential to understand how hazing is defined under university policy and federal law. 

Hazing, defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed (whether individually or in concert) against another person or persons regardless of the willingness of such other person or persons to participate, that:
A. Is committed in the course of an initiation into, an affiliation with, or the maintenance of membership in a group or organization; and
B.  Causes or creates a risk, above the reasonable risk encountered in the course of participation in the University or the organization (such as the physical preparation necessary for participation in an athletic team), of physical or psychological injury, including:

• whipping, beating, striking, electronic shocking, placing of a harmful substance on someone’s body, or similar activity;
• causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, extreme calisthenics, or other similar activity;
• causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing another person to consume food, liquid, alcohol, drugs, or other substances;
• causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing another person to perform sexual acts;
• any activity that places another person in reasonable fear of bodily harm through the use of threatening words or conduct;
• any activity against another person that includes a criminal violation of local, State, Tribal, or Federal law; and
• any activity that induces, causes, or requires another person to perform a duty or task that involves a criminal violation of local, State, Tribal, or Federal law.

Failure by a group or organization’s executive officers to intervene to prevent, discourage, and/or report hazing of which they are aware or reasonably should be aware also will be deemed a violation of this policy.

Note: The University System has adopted this definition from the federal definition of hazing.  The Collected Rules and Regulations, Section 200.010 Standard of Conduct. Hazing is also defined and prohibited under state law (RSMo 578.365, SB 160, otherwise known as Danny's Law). Student and organizations must comply with both institutional policies and applicable laws.  

Eye-opening Facts

Anyone can be hazed.  

     Hazing isn't just about fraternities and sororities. It can occur in various clubs, teams, and organizations.

Hazing is not a rite of passage.

     Hazing is a form of abuse that undermines unity and bonds, creating a culture of fear and intimidation.

There are serious legal consequences!

     Hazing is illegal, individuals can face criminal charges, fines, and expulsion from their institutions if caught participating in hazing activities.

Hazing can happen at any age.

     A significant percentage of students experience hazing before even reaching college, with some experiencing it as early as before age 13.

Missouri Hazing Prevention Law

All members of the University community, including student organizations and individual students, must comply with Missouri State Law, known as Danny's Law (RSMo 578.365). This makes it a criminal offense to knowingly participate in, plan, or encourage hazing acts that recklessly endangers the mental or physical health or safety of any individual seeking to join, maintain membership in, or formerly affiliated with a sanctioned organization. We encourage all community members to familiarize themselves with the protections and responsibilities outlines in Danny's Law. 

Key Points

• Applied to conduct on or off campus
• Consent is not a defense
• Executive Officers who fail to intervene or report hazing may also be held responsible
• Violations may result in a Class A misdemeanor or a Class D felony
• May provide legal immunity for those who call for emergency assistance or render aid during a hazing incident 

Your Role in Prevention

Members of the University community all have a role to play in preventing and reporting hazing. We encourage you to:

• Recognize hazing in all its forms, not just physical acts, but also emotional coercion, intimidation, and exclusion
• Report any suspected hazing through your campus’ reporting system
• Model respectful, inclusive behavior and support a culture of accountability

Our prevention efforts are informed by national research, which emphasizes ethical leadership, bystander intervention, and peer mentorship as effective tools for cultural change.

Recognizing Hazing in Real Life 

Public Shaming: A Membership Requirement?

Unfair Tasks Assigned to New Members

Sleep Deprivation disguised as Academic Support