A warning to parents...Mission Viejo, CA recently 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.
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 send 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
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