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Committee advances hazing-prevention bill after parents’ testimony in honor of Caleb Wilson
Summary
A legislative committee reported HB 336 favorably after Representative LaFleur and Caleb Wilson’s parents urged stronger campus hazing prevention measures. The bill would strengthen education, training, reporting and enforcement at public postsecondary institutions; members supported it unanimously in committee.
A legislative committee on May 12 reported House Bill 336 favorably after emotional testimony from the parents of Caleb Wilson, a Southern University student who died in an incident described in the hearing as hazing.
Representative LaFleur, the bill sponsor, told the committee the legislation packages recommendations from the Caleb Wilson Hazing and Prevention Task Force into statutory changes meant to prevent similar tragedies. "Hazing is dangerous, illegal, and preventable," LaFleur said, urging lawmakers to adopt measures that expand education, training, reporting and accountability across campuses.
Why it matters: The bill seeks to require clearer prevention efforts and reporting mechanisms at public postsecondary institutions, aiming to identify dangerous behavior earlier and hold responsible parties to account. LaFleur said the task force’s work, which included students, campus leaders, law enforcement and family members, identified a need for clearer laws and consistent enforcement.
Family testimony shaped the hearing. "I come to you today to ask that you would please support this bill," said Erania Wilson, Caleb’s mother, who described the loss and asked the committee to act so other families do not face the same tragedy. "Caleb died because of hazing members. Call it what it is," she said.
Corey Wilson, Caleb’s father, also urged support, saying his son had worked hard and would not be able to walk the stage to receive his diploma. Senators and committee members responded with sympathy and unanimous support to advance the measure. Senator Bartholomew moved the bill favorable and, with no objections, the committee reported HB 336 favorably.
What comes next: The bill was reported favorable out of committee and will proceed toward further floor consideration. The sponsor and members said they would continue to refine implementation details as needed before floor debate.
Sources: Attorney Roberts read the bill; Representative LaFleur presented and family members Erania and Corey Wilson testified in support. The committee recorded a favorable report with no objections.
