House Republican Press Release

April 20, 2006

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Rep. Bacchiochi: Bill to Deter Parents from Hosting Keg Parties for Teenagers Passes House

Legislation that would make it illegal for parents or other adults to host parties at their homes where teenagers and other underage youths are allowed to consume alcoholic beverages was approved Tuesday by the state House of Representatives, state Representative Penny Bacchiochi said today.

The measure (House Bill 5211), which passed the House on a 123 - 23 vote, is awaiting final legislative approval by the state Senate.

“I recently attended a town meeting in Somers where the subject of parties hosted by adults where teenagers were allowed to consume beer or other alcoholic beverages came up,” said Representative Bacchiochi, R-52^nd District. “Many parents who are concerned about the problem said they supported the enactment of a state law that would prohibit these kinds of gatherings rather than addressing the issue on a town by town basis through local ordinances.”

“In Stafford and Somers, parties on private property involving illegal drinking by minors have taken place in the recent past,” Representative Bacchiochi said. “Unfortunately, the lack of a state law prohibiting parties like these meant that local police could make only limited responses to the incidents. If enacted, this legislation would give law enforcement an effective new tool to combat underage drinking.”

“Underage drinking and driving has become more common over the past few years. It is a tragedy waiting to happen. If this bill becomes law, it will make parents more aware of the problem of underage drinking at their homes. It will foster more communication between parents, children and other adults; but most importantly, it will save lives,” Representative Bacchiochi said.

The bill makes it illegal for parents or other adults to knowingly allow minors to illegally possess alcohol in their home or apartment unit or on their property. The bill makes a first offense an infraction and subsequent offenses subject to up to one year in prison, a fine of up to $500, or both.