The Associated Press reported March 12 that Pataki and Westchester County District Attorney Jeanine Pirro unveiled the legislation by noting that 4,400 people under age 21 were arrested in New York last year for driving under the influence of alcohol.

"If you are 16 ... and you have a fake driver's license in your possession, you're done driving until you turn 21," said Pataki in describing the measure. Added Pirro: "A teenager's most prized possession is his or her license. We think this will have an enormous impact on underage drinking."

Currently, kids who use an altered license can be charged with criminal possession of a forged instrument and temporarily lose their driving privileges. The Pataki bill also would make youths wait longer to get their licenses back if they are convicted of an alcohol-related driving offense.

Police officials suggested that parents check their children's licenses to ensure that the date of birth has not been changed.

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