With prom and graduation season in full swing, Ohio's Department of Commerce and the Ohio Department of Public Safety are shining a sober spotlight on underage drinking, urging communities to prioritize safety in celebrations. According to a news release, these agencies are calling on liquor permit holders, families, schools, and other community members to collaborate in ensuring that young people's milestones are marked without the illegal inclusion of alcohol.
Reflecting on the data from the previous year, a slight reprieve in tragic trends was observed - there were 393 alcohol-related vehicle crashes involving youth between April and early June of 2024, indicating a 10% decrease when juxtaposed with the same period in 2023, the news release reminds everyone that it's a collective responsibility to maintain this downward trajectory. They stress that not only the law but also the moral compass dictates that adults should refrain from supplying alcohol to individuals under the age of 21.
To bolster preventive efforts and hold violators accountable, the state makes it clear that community vigilance plays a pivotal role. If there is suspicion or evidence of underage alcohol sales, Ohioans are encouraged to report such incidents by dialing #677 or through the Ohio Investigative Unit's website. This serves as a call to action, underscoring the law's reach and the community's commitment to the welfare of its youth.
