Measure granting immunity in minor consumption cases passes
Air Date:01/31/2012
By Jackelyn Severin
A legislative panel has passed a measure exempting some under-age drinkers from prosecution if they need to call 911. Proponents of the measure say if a college student passes out from drinking too much his or her peers may avoid calling emergency services for fear of receiving a Minor in Consumption. Mark York is the Student Body President of South Dakota State University. York says Senate Bill 86 helps students make the right decision when every minute counts in saving someone’s life.
York says, “The majority of the time law enforcement won’t prosecute people if they call 911. But every now and again they do and if there is that fear people are going to hesitate to call.”
York says the exemption would only be given to one person. He says that student must also assist the person in medical need and must fully cooperate with medical services and law enforcement.
Opponents say the measure encourages binge drinking and may be abused by under-age drinkers.
The Senate Judiciary committee passed Senate Bill 86 by a vote of 6 to 1.
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