What Parents of Teenagers Should Know About Alcohol
The Law
You cannot give alcohol to your children's friends under 21 years of age under any circumstances, even in your own home and with their parents' permission.
You cannot knowingly allow a person less than 21 years of age to remain in your home or on your property while consuming or possessing alcoholic beverages.
If You Break the Law
You can face a maximum sentence of six months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
Others can sue you if you give alcohol to anyone under 21 years of age and they, in turn, hurt someone or damage property.
Friends, neighbors, and acquaintances will call you an irresponsible person, or worse.
Prevention Is Key
Talk to your children about alcohol and the law.
Lock up all your alcohol, including beer, just as you would lock your car in a parking lot.
Be at home when your children have parties. Do not provide alcohol or allow drinking.
Call the police if you know of underage persons purchasing or consuming alcohol.
Remember
Parents' attitudes and behavior about alcohol influence the attitudes and behaviors of their children.
Twice as many teens and young adults die each year in alcohol-related motor vehicle accidents than the number that died each year in combat during the Vietnam conflict.
Do not offer your teen a beer on his or her last birthday.
