» Hazing Policies

Campus Policies

Chapman's Hazing Policy

Hazing is defined as any method of initiation or preinitiation into, or condition of continued membership in, a student organization or student body, whether or not the organization or body is officially recognized, which is likely to cause serious bodily injury or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm to any former, current, or prospective student.

California Law

CA Penal Code §245.6

California Penal Code §245.6 outlines California’s law against hazing. This law makes it illegal to engage in any activities that have the potential to cause bodily injury to a current or prospective member of an organization. The result of bodily injury is not required for an act to be considered hazing; it is the likelihood of bodily injury that classifies an act as hazing. 

According to this law, hazing that does not result in bodily injury is considered a misdemeanor and is punishable by:

  • A fine of up to $5,000 and/or
  • Up to one (1) year in county jail

Hazing that does result in bodily injury or death can be considered a felony and is punishable by:

  • Up to three (3) years in California state prison

Medical Amnesty/Good Samaritan Policy

Medical Amnesty Initiative California's Good Samaritan Policy

Medical amnesty is a policy that protects intoxicated or impaired underage students from punishment if medical assistance is called to help them in an emergency situation. The Good Samaritan Policy states that any person who in good faith calls for emergency medical care to a scene of an emergency will not be liable for any civil damages resulting from any act or omission. 


The intent of these policies is to empower bystanders to interfere and call for medical attention when necessary without the fear of liability or legal punishment.