Ohio Authorities Ramp Up Efforts to Curb Underage Drinking During Prom and Graduation Season
As prom and graduation season approaches in Ohio, state officials are stepping up efforts to combat underage drinking and ensure the safety of high school students during these celebratory events. The Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Liquor Control, alongside the Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Ohio Investigative Unit (OIU), is urging liquor permit holders, parents, schools, and communities to work together to prevent alcohol-related incidents.
A Critical Time for Youth Safety
Spring is often a time of excitement and anticipation for high school seniors, but it also comes with increased risks. According to data from the Ohio Department of Public Safety, there were 393 alcohol-related vehicle crashes involving youth between April and early June 2023—a slight decrease from the previous year but still a cause for concern.
“We rely on permit holders across the state to help us keep alcohol out of the hands of minors,” said Jackie DeGenova, Superintendent of the Division of Liquor Control. “Their vigilance and adherence to the law are essential to the health and safety of our communities, especially our youth.”
Key Steps for Liquor Permit Holders
Liquor permit holders play a crucial role in preventing underage drinking. Officials are urging them to take the following steps:
- Verify IDs Meticulously: Ensure all alcohol purchases comply with the law by carefully checking identification.
- Train Employees: Provide staff with training to confidently enforce liquor laws and handle difficult situations.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Immediately notify local authorities of any attempts to purchase alcohol illegally.
A Community-Wide Responsibility
While liquor permit holders are on the front lines, officials emphasize that preventing underage drinking is a shared responsibility. Schools, parents, and community members are encouraged to collaborate to promote alcohol-free events and educate teens about the dangers of underage drinking.
Jamie Patton, Executive Director of the OIU, issued a stern warning to parents: “As a parent, you cannot provide alcohol to anyone under the age of 21. While you may think you are providing a safe environment, you are committing a crime by providing alcohol to underage youth. This can result in injuries or death, jail time, fines, and even civil suits.”
Celebrating Safely
Officials are hopeful that increased awareness and cooperation will help make this prom and graduation season both memorable and safe for Ohio’s students.
“We applaud the work of parents, schools, and businesses in stepping up to make this prom and graduation season a safe and memorable time for Ohio’s students,” DeGenova added. “Together, we can celebrate their achievements while protecting their well-being.”
How to Report Violations
Residents who witness bars, stores, or carry-outs selling alcohol to minors are encouraged to report the activity by calling #677 or visiting the Ohio Investigative Unit’s website at oiu.ohio.gov.
As Ohio gears up for these milestone events, the message is clear: safety must remain a top priority. By working together, communities can ensure that this spring is a time of celebration—not tragedy.
— Reported by Nexio News
