Social host bill gets support in Mississippi

By Staff Writer

Many lawmakers across the U.S. are introducing bills that make it illegal for adults to provide a place for underage drinking. These proposals are intended to help keep alcohol away from minors and enforce hefty fines on adults who condone the behavior.

For instance, Mississippi legislators recently announced two bills that aim to punish adults who knowingly host a party where alcohol is being served to minors, The Weekly Northside reports.

“Right now, it is illegal to purchase alcohol for minors, but it is difficult to prove who purchased it,” State Senator David Blount, told the news source. “This bill would make adults responsible if they know underage drinking is going on, regardless of whether they bought them the alcohol.”

If the bills are passed, adults who knowingly serve minors alcohol and are convicted may face a $1,000 fine and up to 90 days in jail.

Parents can enroll their children into boarding schools to help educate them on the dangers of alcohol as well as provide a environment conducive to learning healthy habits.

According to the 2009 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 42 percent of high school students reportedly consumed alcohol at some point during their lifetime.