Underage Drinking

Alcohol use by youth is sometimes thought of as a rite of passage.  The fact is that it is illegal under the age of 21. Research shows that when drinking starts before the age of 15, youth are more likely to become dependent on alcohol. Because their brains do not fully mature until their mid-20’s, alcohol can alter development, which could lead to cognitive and learning problems.  Some adults feel well if it’s in my house then its o.k.  The law says, you cannot give alcohol to anyone under the age of 21 under any circumstances, even with the parent’s permission. There is a mandatory fine of $1,000 for their first offense and $2,500 for each following offense. Not to mention the fact, that law enforcement can seize any alcohol, money, or property used in committing the offense.  Still 29% of students reported in the Pennsylvania Youth Survey (PAYS) that parent’s provided the alcohol for them.