Adults Now Liable for Underage Drinking…
A warning to parents…Mission Viejo, CA just adopted a new law that makes adults liable for under-age drinking if they provide the location for it. The “Social Host Ordinance” is already in 24 cities in California and is sure to be seen soon in others around Orange County. Laguna Hills is currently drafting its own ordinance.
Parents may feel more comfortable knowing their barely legal children will be drinking at home, rather than sneaking out to parties–but time has come for consequences. An adult is now liable for under-age drinking if it occurs in their home. The primary goal of this law is to target “party houses”. Officials hope to reduce the percentage of loud parties, underage drinking (and driving),and create a safer and healthier community.
With the summer in full swing, parents hosting backyard BBQs, graduation and going away parties beware…The law has a maximum punishment of $1,000 and 6 months jail time, and at the minimum reduced to an infraction. Each violation will be reviewed case by case and the city attorney will make sentencing decisions. Alongside penalties may be community service, which may be particularly focused towards organizations such as MADD.
What do you think about this? Will it help reduce the number of alcohol-related incidents?
I’m interested in your comments. Please email your thoughts and share with me if this is happening in your community.
And thank you for making me your Orange County Real Estate connection.
Best Regards,
Michael Caruso
I think that under-age kids should just stop drinking. If kids are able to drink under their roof, then don’t you think that just means more kids will be drinking because they’re allowed to? I know plenty of people who don’t follow this law anyways. My sister is a good example. Drinks under our roof and any party she may go to.
Regardless of laws no one will stop doing what they want to do. They keep making laws thinking it’ll help things get better, but if someone wants to do something they’re going to do it.