The Pennsylvania General Assembly passed a new law, now signed by governor Josh Shapiro, requiring mandatory reporters to report suspected hazing activity in the same way they do suspected child abuse. The law comes as a direct response to the hazing incident at Cheltenham High School last year.
According to CBS News, the new law will take effect Jan. 20, 2027.
The new law expands mandatory reporting language and responsibilities, including hazing under the umbrella of behavior that teachers, coaches, and other professionals who work with children should report to authorities.
"I think it's important that we close gaps in reporting, ensure that victims are receiving the supports that they need," Representative Napoleon Nelson said.
Related: Pennsylvania High School Cancels 2026 Football Season While Hazing Investigation Continues
Cheltenham High School’s football program was suspended in October 2025 when the school received a report that a student-athlete was assaulted by another student-athlete in the locker room while at least 19 others watched and recorded the incident. Investigators found that a lack of locker room supervision by coaches and staff was partially to blame. This summer, school officials announced the 2026 season would also be canceled and several student-athletes were charged with aggravated assault.
Related: Coaches, Student-Athletes Charges in Cheltenham HS Locker Room Hazing Incident
Prior to the passing of the new law, a judge upheld an endangerment and conspiracy charge against the former coaches as well. In doing so, they described the hazing as “a horrific abuse that happened in the locker room.”
Cheltenham school officials and several parents participated in discussions with lawmakers leading up to the expansion of the mandatory reporting law. They shared their experiences to give lawmakers insights into what new language would help.
One Cheltenham parent called the new law “"a win for all youth across the commonwealth."
