We’re taking this opportunity to remind everyone of the 1989 amendment to the Ohio Revised Code Section 4301.69. Commonly known as the "keg law," the amendment holds individuals responsible for underage drinking on property under their control.

If an after-prom party is held at a private home, for example, and the parents knowingly allow underage persons to consume alcoholic beverages, both the underage persons and the parents are in violation of the law. Violation of the keg law is a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable with up to six months in jail and/or up to $ 1,000 fine. Also, the parents may be held liable in the event that an underage person is involved in an alcoholic-related crash.

In this law the same responsibility was placed on hotels, motels, campgrounds, and other public places so that they would not knowingly allow underage drinking parties to take place on their premises, subject to criminal prosecution.

We must continue to work together to stop the senseless tragedies associated with irresponsible and illegal alcohol consumption. The department would be happy to answer any questions regarding the liquor laws or to provide any assistance in investigating possible liquor violations. Please feel free to contact our Narcotics and Vice Unit at (440) 204-2108. Also, please encourage any individual who observes violations of Ohio liquor laws to call the department’s complaint desk at (440) 204-2100, the Narcotics & Vice Unit at (440) 204-2108, or the Ohio Department of Liquor Control at (614) 238-6772.

We hope that together we can make this the safest prom and graduation season yet !!!