Conn. Moves to Punish Parents Who Host Teen Drinking Parties

After years of failure, a bill that imposes tougher penalties on parents who host underage-drinking parties has passed the Connecticut House of Representatives, the Stamford Advocate reported April 19.

The bill, approved 123-23, is a compromise that allows misdemeanor, but not felony, charges to be filed against adults who knowingly allow anyone under age 21 to possess alcohol on their property. Even adult babysitters and others who have "dominion and control" over a property could be charged.

Also, the bill increases the penalty for minors in possession of alcohol from a fine of $200 to $500 for second offenses.

Police also would have increased power to enter homes to investigate underage drinking.

The measure now goes to the state Senate.