The best way to eliminate underage drinking is for lawmakers and police enforcement to eliminate speeding.
While the two have virtually nothing to do with each other, they share a common thread. Both are punishable by fines, a tainted record and possible jail time but will nevertheless continue to exist for the sole reason that it will always happen. As long as there have been motorists, some have decided to exceed speed limits. And as long as young people will seek a good time, some will decide to drink in spite of the law.
Of course, the juxtaposition of these two offenses isn't meant in a literal sense. It merely serves as commentary to the fact that they're both crimes that thrive despite their consequences. The problem with such offenses is not in their regular occurrence or intent, but in their enforcement. Resources are better spent to make sure offenders comply with their punishment, rather than trying to nip the problem in the bud.
Stopping underage drinking is an exhaustively daunting - and logistically impossible - task. Those underage who choose to drink undoubtedly will seek alcohol, and the avenues available to procuring it illegally almost certainly will be there as long as the current punishments are maintained. The next logical move, then, is before the Michigan House of Representatives as we speak.
Sen. Thomas George, R-Kalamazoo, has proposed legislation that poses stiffer fines and possible jail time for those repeatedly found to be minors in possession of alcohol without complying with court orders from their first offense. Meaning, should a minor be in possession of alcohol, the legislation gives incentive for offenders to pay fines and complete necessary probation in a timely fashion. First-time offenders, then, get a second chance. If they pay the $100 fine and complete court-ordered probation expediently, the offense is removed from his or her record.
The message that George sends reinforces that Michigan lawmakers are not out to make criminals of underage drinkers, only to curtail repeat offenses and ensure that court orders are followed.
It's common knowledge that on a large college campus, underage people are capable of making mistakes. It's not entirely uncommon for otherwise upstanding people to exercise poor judgment and acquire an MIP misdemeanor. We agree with the proposed legislation in its intent, and sincerely believe that repeat offenders do deserve more than a slap on the wrist when court orders are purposely disregarded.
That said, it's comforting to know that should a student be found in the shadow of the bill - should it become law - he or she will have the necessary defense available. Despite an estimated $9,810 budget deficit facing ASMSU, representatives voted to approve a new contract for two attorneys who work free of charge for student court defense.
These attorneys, Brian Jeffries and James Newton, truly give new meaning to the ideals of public service and deserve to be treated as such. Their contract stipulates a 3-percent pay cut, but it is in line with cuts facing the rest of the university's faculty, we fully support ASMSU's decision to keep Jeffries and Newton on board and at the student's disposal.
Of course, should repeat MIP offenders be using ASMSU attorneys in their proceedings, we hope it will be for a reason other than delinquent fulfillment of court orders.
