Social Host Ordinance
The holidays are coming up, and with them, another long break from school. This is a great opportunity for youth to relax and spend time with friends and family. As adults in the community, we want to accommodate our children and their friends with fun and safe activities. Unfortunately, school breaks can also be a time when underage drinking parties occur more frequently. According to national surveys conducted by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), more than 53% of youth ages 12-20 who drank in the past month did so in someone else's home, and more than 30% drank in their own home.
Now is the perfect time to talk to your children about the risks involved with underage drinking. Remember, new Social Host Ordinances in Faribault, Northfield and Rice County make it a crime to knowingly provide a place where underage drinking occurs-even if the host does not supply the alcohol. The consequences: Up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Teens who host parties will also be charged under social host laws.
What can parents and guardians do to prevent underage drinking?
- Provide a supervised location and appropriate, alcohol-free activities for youth.
- Make the Call: get connected and stay connected to the parents of your teen's friends; compare notes; share expectations; review plans; assure that there is adequate supervision.
- Talk to your children about drug/alcohol use, and set clear expectations.
For more information, visit the Rice County Chemical Health Coalition website at http://ricecountychc.com/or call 507-210-5151.
