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Oklahoma
State Senate For Immediate Release: May 13, 2010 Senate Gives Final Okay to Bill Aimed at Underage Drinking on Party Buses The full Senate has given final approval to a bill cracking down on party bus companies that turn a blind eye to drunken teen passengers. Senate Bill 1762, by Sen. Debbe Leftwich, D-Oklahoma City, received final consideration with a 44 to 0 vote on Thursday. “From what I understand, the legitimate limo and bus companies are conscientious about this sort of thing, and they don’t tolerate underage drinking,” Leftwich said. “Unfortunately, an incident in my district last spring is proof that not all companies are ethical or concerned about the health and safety of teens they’ve been hired to drive.” Leftwich originally filed SB 1762 after being contacted about the problem by administrators at Santa Fe High School. Students attending last year’s prom rented a party bus and drank on the way to the dance. “These students were severely intoxicated by the time they arrived, but alert school employees saw what was happening and intervened immediately. The students were held accountable, but there seemed to be some gray area in the law when it came time to hold the driver or company accountable for their part in this situation,” Leftwich said, “That’s what we’re addressing with SB 1762.” If the bill becomes law, it would make it illegal for a person owning or operating a hired bus or limousine service to knowingly transport minors who are drinking or in possession of alcohol or low-point beer. A violation would be a misdemeanor with a fine of up to $500 for the driver and for the owner of the vehicle. Those convicted of a subsequent offense would face the fine and the loss of the driver’s commercial license. In addition, the company owning the vehicle could be barred from operating in Oklahoma for one year. SB 1762 now returns to the House of Representatives for a final vote. If approved, the bill goes to Gov. Brad Henry for his signature. For more information, contact:
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