Harrisburg, PA − September 14, 2026 − Senators Art Haywood (D-Philadelphia and Montgomery Counties) and Lisa Baker (R‑Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming Counties) announced plans to introduce bipartisan legislation that would add hazing to Pennsylvania’s mandatory reporting guidelines. The forthcoming bill follows the Montgomery County Grand Jury’s July 2026 report detailing the alleged hazing and abuse of a Cheltenham High School student.
Currently, hazing is not defined as child abuse under Pennsylvania law. This gap leaves students across the Commonwealth vulnerable in schools, athletic programs, and youth organizations, where adults may be unsure whether or how to report suspected incidents. In the Cheltenham case, the absence of a clear reporting requirement contributed to the mishandling of a serious disclosure of harm, leaving a student unprotected and allowing a broader culture of abuse to persist.
The Haywood–Baker legislation would formally designate hazing as a mandated reportable offense. By clarifying responsibilities for educators, coaches, and other adults who interact with young people, the bill aims to strengthen safeguards and ensure prompt action when concerns arise.
“With this legislation, we can close a dangerous loophole and better protect young people across Pennsylvania,” said Senator Haywood. “No student should endure the violence or humiliation described in the grand jury report.”
“Despite previous efforts to strengthen the law and add to its requirements, the notorious events at Cheltenham High School made additional reform mandatory,” said Senator Baker. “Since the grand jury report was released, there has been commendable cooperation in developing this legislation.”
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