[January 03, 2013]CHICAGO -- As the clock strikes
midnight for the coming new year, the important role adults play in
keeping alcohol out of the hands of our children will be further
defined, when new sanctions take effect on those allowing underage
drinking in their home.

Sponsored by state Rep. Carol Sente and state Sen. Susan Garrett,
the new legislation closes a loophole of legal accountability on
those who knowingly allow alcohol consumption by minors.

"By
protecting our youth, we protect our future," says Illinois Gov. Pat
Quinn, who signed
Public Act 97-1049 into law on Aug. 22. "Adults know it is
unacceptable to allow underage drinking in their home. By putting a
social host law on the books, we are sending a strong message to all
adults that they will be held responsible when allowing this harmful
activity."

Violators of the social host law, which takes effect on Jan. 1,
will be guilty of a Class A misdemeanor and subject to a fine of not
less than $500 when they knowingly authorize or permit underage
drinking in their home. If this activity results in great bodily
harm or death to any person, the individual is subject to a Class 4
felony. However, a person will not be in violation if he or she has
taken all reasonable steps to prevent this activity from occurring.
Also, no charges will be filed if assistance is requested from law
enforcement after discovery of the illegal activity.

"Statistics show that friends and family remain the primary
source of alcohol for underage drinking," says Illinois Liquor
Control Commission Executive Director Gloria L. Materre. "Just as
our liquor licensees are punished when selling to minors, all adults
will now be subject to penalties should they provide alcohol to
minors."

Ray Rose, Mundelein police chief and co-chair of the Lake County
Underage Drinking Prevention Task Force, who was instrumental in
creating the law, noted: "For the past four years, the LCUDP has
played a lead role in encouraging communities throughout the state
to pass social host ordinances. By signing this law, Gov. Quinn
demonstrates his commitment to protecting the future of all Illinois
children."

Underage drinking prevention and education have always been a
priority at the Liquor Control Commission, as best exemplified by
its "Don't Be Sorry" public awareness campaign. Coming this spring,
these efforts will see a renewed focus through the unveiling of a
new statewide activity designed specifically by teens themselves.

"While our Don't Be Sorry program has been a great success, we
are constantly looking for ways to improve its delivery," says Ted
Penesis, education manager for the Illinois Liquor Control
Commission. "Teenagers are the best resource to provide us with
ideas to ensure our educational programs remain fresh and effective.
Through this statewide art contest, we can learn from our youth as
they submit designs for a new program to educate adults, teens and
liquor retailers on the consequences of underage drinking."

A panel of judges will review submissions and choose the winning
design. In April, the new educational campaign will be unveiled at
media events located throughout the state. For contest guidelines,
instructions, submission procedures and more, visit
www.DontBeSorry.org. All
copy and artwork must be submitted by the Feb. 15 deadline.