Kentucky lawmakers pass bill to make hazing a crime

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky lawmakers have passed a bill aimed at creating a new crime to punish hazing. The bill is in response to calls for action following a university student’s death. The Senate voted 30-4 for final passage Thursday. The bill now goes to Gov. Andy Beshear. The bill would create a felony crime for hazing that results in the death or serious injury of a student. The offense would be punishable by up to five years in prison. Supporters of the bill include the family of Thomas “Lofton” Hazelwood, a University of Kentucky student who died of alcohol poisoning while pledging a fraternity in 2021.