I would like to bring to your attention the subject of “Social Host Liability.”  In the past couple of years, the Illinois legislature has changed this law.  Any adult who provides alcohol (or any intoxicating substance) to a minor is liable for any damages caused by the intoxication of that minor - even if the intoxicated minor injures himself or herself.  Bottom line:  Although it used to be an acceptable display of trust and recognition of maturity for Illinois parents to provide beer to teenage children and their friends, such a gesture now would make that parent strictly liable for any injuries that result.

 

The message of this new statute is clear:  Adults in this state simply can no longer provide alcohol to minors.  The days of the “cool parents” are in the past.  The concept of “teaching my kids to drink responsibly” is no longer acceptable.  The mandate imposed by the strict liability in the statue is clear:  Underage drinking cannot continue and adults who facilitate it will be held responsible for any harm that is caused. 

 

Underage drinking parties are illegal and if one is discovered in Norridge, the Norridge Police Department will not “look the other way,” but will take punitive action.

 

 

Humbly and appreciatively yours,