Florida’s intricate anti-hazing law takes effect October first

Tallahassee, Fla. — Governor Ron DeSantis signed what is being called a 'cutting-edge' anti-hazing law this summer, but it does not take effect until after the August fraternity and sorority 2019 rush.

Experts say the law  is an attempt to stem the sometimes deadly rituals by expanding those who could be criminally liable and offering protections for those who come to the aid of an ailing victim.

The law gives immunity to Good Samaritans who call 911 if they see a hazing victim who needs medical attention.

It also says anyone who attempts to administer aid will not be charged.

The only catch in both of those circumstances the people must remain on the scene until help arrives.

The new law also says those who helped plan a hazing event but weren’t physically present at the time of execution, can now be prosecuted.

The law, dubbed Andrew's Law, is a direct result of the November 2017 death of Florida State University fraternity pledge Andrew Coffey.

Coffey, 20,  passed away after drank an entire fifth of Wild Turkey bourbon at an off-campus initiation party.

He passed out and was carried to a couch to “sleep-it-off.”

Coffey was found without a pulse the next morning and his autopsy showed a blood alcohol level of 0.447, nearly six times the legal driving limit.

After the tragedy, Coffey’s parents lobbied the Florida Legislature to amp up the state’s law.

The bill sailed through the legislative process, being unanimously approved at every step.