Legislative Winds of Change: What You Need to Know About Upcoming Bills Affecting Fraternities

Fraternity life is continually evolving, with new challenges and opportunities on the horizon as college campuses bustle with activities. However, some significant changes and actions regarding fraternity life are happening in Washington, DC. The House and Senate are discussing and debating four pieces of legislation that could impact fraternity life. 

Collegiate Freedom of Association Act (H.R. 1626) and Freedom of Association in Higher Education (H.R. 2451)
The bills sponsored by House Representatives Ruben Gallego and Elise M. Stefanik aim to protect college students from adverse actions by higher education institutions based solely on their membership in single-sex social organizations. These bills protect the fundamental principle of freedom of association, allowing students to form or join social organizations without fear of repercussions. These bills seek to ensure that colleges and universities do not infringe upon the right of students to create or join single-sex social organizations and thereby safeguard their freedom of association.


Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure Act (H.R. 2662)
Representative Brad R. Wenstrup has sponsored a bill that focuses on providing grants for collegiate housing and infrastructure. The bill allows tax-exempt charitable or educational organizations to give grants to certain tax-exempt social clubs, such as college fraternities and sororities, to improve, operate or maintain their collegiate housing property.
This legislation recognizes the importance of fraternity housing and infrastructure and supports these organizations in maintaining their facilities. It's a positive step towards ensuring fraternities have the resources to provide safe accommodation for their members.


Stop Campus Hazing Act (H.R. 5646 and S. 2901)
This bill, introduced in both the House and the Senate, addresses the pressing issue of hazing on college campuses. Its main goal is to require higher education institutions to disclose and clearly define hazing incidents. The definition focuses on intentional, knowing, or reckless acts that pose a substantial risk of harm. Moreover, the bill mandates that each institution develop a comprehensive hazing prevention program. The program should include raising awareness, prevention strategies, and reporting processes. The transparency brought by this bill to hazing incidents and prevention efforts is expected to play a significant role in reducing harmful practices.


Phi Mu Delta understands the importance of being informed about potential legislation. It reflects the fraternity's core value of democracy and reinforces its commitment to democratic ideals, freedom of association, and the well-being of its members. By actively participating in the democratic process, Phi Mu Delta members contribute to a brighter, safer future for student life on college campuses.