Connecticut § 53-23a - Hazing.
Full text of Connecticut Connecticut General Statutes § 53-23a — Hazing., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 53-23a. Hazing.
Sec. 53-23a. Hazing. (a) For purposes of this section:
(1) “Hazing” means any action which recklessly or intentionally endangers the health or safety of a person for the purpose of initiation, admission into or affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a student organization. The term shall include, but not be limited to:
(A) Requiring indecent exposure of the body;
(B) Requiring any activity that would subject the person to extreme mental stress, such as sleep deprivation or extended isolation from social contact;
(C) Confinement of the person to unreasonably small, unventilated, unsanitary or unlighted areas;
(D) Any assault upon the person; or
(E) Requiring the ingestion of any substance or any other physical activity which could adversely affect the health or safety of the individual. The term shall not include an action sponsored by an institution of higher education which requires any athletic practice, conditioning, or competition or curricular activity.
(2) “Student organization” means a fraternity, sorority or any other organization organized or operating at an institution of higher education.
(b) No student organization or member of a student organization shall engage in hazing any member or person pledged to be a member of the organization. The implied or express consent of the victim shall not be a defense in any action brought under this section.
(c) A student organization which violates subsection (b) of this section (1) shall be subject to a fine of not more than one thousand five hundred dollars and (2) shall forfeit for a period of not less than one year all of the rights and privileges of being an organization organized or operating at an institution of higher education.
(d) A member of a student organization who violates subsection (b) of this section shall be subject to a fine of not more than one thousand dollars.
(e) This section shall not in any manner limit or exclude prosecution or punishment for any crime or any civil remedy.
(P.A. 88-328, S. 1–5.)
Secs. 53-24 to 53-33. Taking or enticing away a child. Unlawful exhibition or employment of child. Abduction of child by either parent. Kidnapping. Assault with intent to rob. Attempt to procure miscarriage or abortion. Abortion or miscarriage: Fine. Encouraging the commission of abortion. Abortion or miscarriage inducement: Class D felony. Severability. Use of drugs or instruments to prevent conception. Penalty for unlawful operation. Sections 53-24 to 53-33, inclusive, are repealed.
(1949 Rev., S. 4183, 8361, 8363–8365, 8367, 8371–8373, 8568; 1969, P.A. 828, S. 214; May, 1972, P.A. 1, S. 1, 2; P.A. 77-614, S. 323, 610; P.A. 80-135; P.A. 90-113, S. 4.)
Frequently Asked Questions About Connecticut § 53-23a
What does Connecticut General Statutes § 53-23a cover?
Section 53-23a ("Hazing.") is part of the Connecticut General Statutes, the codified statutory law of Connecticut. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Connecticut § 53-23a?
A common citation format is "Connecticut General Statutes § 53-23a" (Connecticut). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Connecticut law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Connecticut official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Connecticut attorney.
How does Connecticut § 53-23a apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Connecticut can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Connecticut.