Student Government: New House bill supports FAU Greek life

The bill was authored by a House member and fraternity vice president, Kevin Buchanan.

Photo courtesy of Student Government

Photo courtesy of Student Government

Benjamin Paley, Distribution Manager

A Boca House of Representatives member is determined to show that FAU Greek life does not reflect Greek life at other universities.

A recent bill brought before the House, titled “House of Representatives Stands with our Greek Life Community,” states that “Greek Life here at Florida Atlantic University has been a shining example of what a Greek community should be.”

House representative and vice president of Pi Kappa Alpha Kevin Buchanan authored the bill, which was co-sponsored by Speaker of the House Marianne Alex.

“Sadly, there was some students at other universities, including Florida State University, that had passed away due to events with the inclusion of alcohol within their fraternity,” Buchanan said. “This recent news on the unfortunate events, painted for some a generalized stereotype for Greek life organizations. This stereotype unfortunately shadows all the good that these hard working Greek organizations have done, especially with their philanthropy and community service work.”

Buchanan set out to support Greek life after receiving feedback from concerned students.

“I authored this legislation because I feel after hearing a lot of complaints on the statutes of where we’re at with with our Greek life community on campus, there needed something to be said,” Buchanan said.

The bill has been sent to two House committees: the Campus Action Committee and the Rules and Policy Committee. The CAC advocates for students on behalf of SG and oversees House legislation, while the RPC ensures legislation adheres to the SG constitution.

Alex said that the bill is being sent to the CAC because “each of us [House members] represents 500 students.”

The bill will be read a second time and voted on during the next House meeting on Jan. 26 at 3:30 p.m. in the Student Union House Chambers.

Benjamin Paley is the distribution manager of the University Press. For information regarding this or other stories, email [email protected].