Bill Allows Underage Drinkers a Call for Help March 1, 2005
News Summary
A bill under consideration in the Colorado legislature would allow -- in some cases -- underage drinkers to call 911 for help in alcohol-poisoning cases without fear of prosecution, the Coloradoan reported Feb. 18.HB-1183 increases penalties for underage alcohol possession and distribution. But the bill also contains a "safe haven" provision "so that kids don't let kids die for fear of calling 911," said sponsor Rep. Angie Paccione (D-Fort Collins).
Paccione's bill originally contained a blanket immunity provision, but was amended to include only the misdemeanor crimes of underage alcohol possession or consumption after law-enforcement officials raised objections. "It's better than it started," said Fort Collins Police Chief Dennis Harrison. "It does address some of our concerns. I think that's a reasonable compromise and we'll see what happens from here."
The bill also bans "AWOL" machines, which allow users to inhale alcohol rather than drinking it.
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