Minnesota Bill Would Give Amnesty for Intoxicated Underage Drinkers

A proposed state law would give underage drinkers protection from prosecution if they call 911 because of a medical emergency.

Winona State and Minnesota State University are among colleges across the country that have a similar policy on campus. DFL Rep. Tina Liebling is sponsoring legislation that would make it a state law.

University of Minnesota student body president Taylor Williams says a students’ hesitation to call for help is a huge problem with a clear fix. But, Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association director Jim Franklin says it could encourage underage drinking. The Star Tribune says Franklin supports an amendment that to be protected, a young person calling 911 must stick around until help arrives.

Winona State dean of students, Karen Johnson, says “the bottom line is the students’ health and safety.”