'I think it would have saved him': Parents of 2019 WSU hazing victim help push anti-hazing bill to Biden's desk

The article details the advocacy journey of Jolayne Houtz and Hector Martinez, whose son Sam tragically died from alcohol poisoning during a fraternity hazing event at Washington State University in 2019. Over the years, they have joined forces with a coalition of families affected by hazing to push for legislative change, culminating in the recent passage of the Stop Campus Hazing Act by the U. S. Senate. This significant legislation mandates that all U.

S. colleges publicly disclose hazing incidents on their websites and implement educational programs designed to prevent such behavior. Houtz shares the profound emotional struggle of coping with their son's loss while transforming their grief into action aimed at protecting other families. Their advocacy is not solely about enacting laws; it seeks to foster a culture of transparency and safety regarding hazing. Additionally, they have launched HazingInfo.

org, providing a comprehensive database of hazing incidents to empower families with essential information. The article emphasizes the broader implications of their efforts, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change in university hazing practices. Houtz's heartfelt remarks convey a deep desire to prevent further tragedies, suggesting that the legislation could ultimately save lives and honor Sam's memory.