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Bill prohibits under 21 from possessing and consuming alcohol
Monday,
April 28, 2008
Governor Togiola Tulafono has signed into law a bill, which makes it a crime for people under 21 to consume or possess alcohol or beer.
The bill fulfills a long expressed wish by the courts to make it illegal for minors to drink or possess beer. Governor Togiola said that alcohol consumption has become a problem with many residents, which sadly includes those under 21. He said domestic violence, driving under the influence and public peace disturbances are just some of the crimes that result when alcohol is consumed without responsibility.
The governor said the bill is a step towards reducing social problems. The chairmen of the Senate and House Judiciary committees Senator Tuaolo Fruean and Representative Vaitoa Hans Langkilde pushed for the bill, at the initiation of District Court Judge John Ward. Assistant Attorney General Faamomoi Masaniai says in the last year more than 90 % of crimes involving young people were committee while they were under the influence.
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