DEPARTMENT: Police Department
DEPARTMENT HEAD: William P. McManus, Chief of Police
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: Citywide
SUBJECT:
Proposed Social Host Accountability Ordinance
SUMMARY:
On May 6, 2016, Council member Rey Salda?a requested City Council consider an ordinance that would create a local social host ordinance "aimed at reducing underage drinking at gatherings where minors might consume alcohol." The proposed ordinance would hold accountable adults legally responsible for property where underage drinking has occurred. On September 7, 2016, the Criminal Justice, Public Safety and Services Committee reviewed the proposed social hosting ordinance and recommended approval for City Council consideration.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Council member Salda?a identifies underage drinking on private property as a threat to the public health, safety, and general welfare of the community. The proposed social host ordinance would grant local enforcement agencies an additional tool to abate gatherings where alcohol is being consumed on private property by providing the option to issue a citation rather than arrest. It is asserted that the ordinance may "decrease the abuse of alcohol by minors, physical altercations and injuries, sexual assaults, truancy, driving under the influence of alcohol, adolescent crime, motor vehicle crashes, neighborhood vandalism and excessive noise disturbances."
There is anecdotal evidence provided by cities across the country that suggests social hosting ordinances reduce underage drinking and the frequency with which law enforcement agencies receive house party calls where underage drinking commonly occurs. Furthermore, social hosting laws are considered a "best practice" by the following organizations:
* National Research Council
* Institute of Medicine
* Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency
Existing Enforcement Activities
The San Antonio Police Department enforces five alcohol-related codes specific to...
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