On March 1 the Buckeye Town Council passed Maricopa County’s first social host ordinance. The ordinance holds adults and parents responsible if there is underage drinking in their home. Research from Buckeye showed that 1 out of 5 youth drank alcohol with their parents and 60% drank alcohol at a home where a parent was present. The Way Out West (WOW) coalition worked with the business community, police, schools and local residents to develop the ordinance. The new ordinance gives the Buckeye police department a new tool to help curb adult enablers who provide alcohol to those under 21. Under the ordinance, a parent or adult in the home where there is underage drinking will receive a citation for $250 and will be required to attend a substance abuse awareness class. The ordinance takes effect immediately. Great job Buckeye and thank you for making a difference!
