New York

New York State Passes Anti-Hazing Law Which Prohibits Certain Physical Initiation Acts

The measure comes five years after the death of an 18-year-old college student who died from injuries sustained during a fraternity hazing ritual

What to Know

  • NY Gov. Cuomo signed anti-hazing legislation prompted by the death of an NYC college student fatally injured while pledging fraternity
  • The measure passed the state Legislature earlier this year, five years after the death of 18-year-old Chun "Michael" Deng, of Queens
  • Cheng was blindfolded, forced to wear a heavy backpack and then repeatedly tackled; He was knocked unconscious and later died at a hospital

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has signed anti-hazing legislation that was prompted by the death of a New York City college student fatally injured while pledging a fraternity.

The Democrat says the bill he signed into law Monday is aimed at keeping students safe as they return to classes later this month.

The law prohibits certain physical contact or requiring physical activity in any organization's initiation ceremony.

The measure passed the state Legislature earlier this year, five years after the death of 18-year-old Chun "Michael" Deng, of Queens. The Baruch College student died after suffering a head injury during a fraternity hazing ritual in Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains.

Cheng was blindfolded, forced to wear a heavy backpack and then repeatedly tackled. He was knocked unconscious and later died at a hospital.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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