Know The Law

Underage drinking isn’t a “grey area” of the law. If it illegal to purchase, pour or provide alcohol for anyone under age 21 who isn’t your child or spouse. Other parents can’t provide “permission” for you to serve their kids alcohol. Adults who think taking car keys away when providing alcohol to youth are placing both the youth and their financial future in jeopardy. Alcohol related drowning, falls and suicides kill hundreds of teens each year. And most homeowners’ insurance policies don’t extend liability coverage for illegal activities. If you purchase, pour or provide alcohol for youth; you put your financial future at risk.

Parents, grandparents and other adults hosting parties for youth under age 21 should plan family and teenage events carefully to prevent underage alcohol use. Parents can protect themselves and their teens by following these simple guidelines when hosting parties that include teens:

• Host safe, alcohol-free activities and events for youth during prom and graduation season.
• Refuse to supply alcohol to children or allow drinking in your home or on your property.
• Be at home when your teenager has a party. Make sure your teenager’s friends do not bring alcohol into your home. If youth bring alcohol into your home, confiscate it immediately.
• Talk to other parents about alcohol-free youth events. Unity creates a tough, enforceable message.
• Report underage drinking to authorities promptly.