TCCASA Wants to Remind Our Community to Have a Safe Prom and Graduation Season
Prom and graduation time is in the air at this exciting time of the year. Parents are planning parties and students are making arrangements for upcoming important events; high school graduation and senior prom. These times are to be remembered and celebrated by students, friends and families, which often means “it’s time to party”. We know that this time of year can also mean an increase in underage parties and drinking, it is important that as a community we promote making good decisions for teens and parents alike.
According to the Youth Risk Behavior Survey 42% of high school students have had at least 1 drink in the last 30 days, 24% have had 5 or more drinks (binge drinking) in the past month. Youth who do drink increase their risk for a variety of things including; injuries to themselves or others, car wrecks, unprotected/unwanted sex, and alcohol poisoning. Parents can be the most important influence in their teen’s lives and talking to them about these dangers is critical in helping them to make the right choices.
However, some adults may think it is safer to have teens party at home to avoid drinking and driving or other impairment problems. A national survey shows that 61% of underage drinking took place in someone else’s home while 31% took place in their own house. Adults can be charged and/or arrested according to NYS penal law for "Unlawfully Dealing with a Child" or "Endangering the Welfare of a Child" if they host a party with underage drinking.
- Any parent or guardian who authorizes or permits any consumption of alcohol by anyone under the age of 21 on their property (regardless of whether the parent provided the alcohol) could be charged with a criminal offense that carries with it a minimum fine of $500 and up to one year in jail.
- If, as a result of the violation stated above, any person suffers great bodily harm or death, the parent or guardian could be charged with a felony and could face 1 to 3 years in prison.
- Any person who provides alcohol to anyone under the age 21 could be charged with a criminal offense and that carries with it a minimum fine of $500 and up to one year in jail.
- In addition to any criminal penalties parents who provide alcohol or allow alcohol to be consumed by minors on their property could face civil liability for any direct or indirect consequences of that alcohol consumption.
Community members suspecting an underage party can report anonymously at 1-866-UNDER21
We hope to raise the level of awareness and make this time of year safe and happy for the proud families in our community! Congratulations Graduates!
Tioga County Council on Addictions is dedicated to promoting awareness, providing information and education and serving as an advocate for alcohol and other substance abuse. For more information contact us at 607-687-6349 or e mail us at colevano@tccasa.org
