Santa Barbara may become the fourth city in California to pass what's being called the Social Host Ordinance (SHO). This ordinance would hold parents or guardians accountable when underage drinking takes place at a party.

"First, a minimum of two people is considered a party. Second, a $1,000 fine will be charged to the host when minors are caught with alcohol. If the host is a minor, parents or guardians are held liable... Adults will be charged regardless of their knowledge of the event or of any intention of underage alcoholic possession or consumption."

The ordinance is still in a draft stage in Santa Barbara, but several organizations are already in support.

Want to learn more about parental liability? Read about Parental Liability for Underage Drivers at DrugRehabTreatment.com.

Labels: parents, parties, liability

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The debate rages on about whether it's beneficial or detrimental for parents to allow their underage kids to drink in their home. Some believe that allowing kids to drink at home, where their activity can be monitored, helps diminish alcohol's attraction because it's no longer considered "forbidden". But even if that method works (and there's evidence that it doesn't), law enforcement officials want to remind parents that there are still legal implications for providing alcohol to minors.

"...when a parent allows their teen to drink excessively or permits other peoples' teens to drink in their home, it becomes illegal. A parent could be charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor or providing unsafe living conditions,' said Galesburg Police Capt. Lindsey May."

Additionally, in states like Illinois, felony charges could be filed against an adult who allows underage drinking that results in death or serious injury.

Read more about Parental Liability for Underage Drivers at DrugRehabTreatment.com.

Labels: parents, underage drinking, liability

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