Bill Providing Medical Amnesty to Minors Seeking Alcohol Treatment Signed

Governor Rick Snyder signed legislation today providing medical amnesty for minors who seek treatment for alcohol poisoning either for themselves or another individual.

Currently individuals under the age of 21 can receive a misdemeanor offense for the purchase, possession or consumption of alcohol, which sometimes deters minors from seeking proper medical attention.

Although already an informal practice among law enforcement in many areas of the state, including medical amnesty in the law will encourage minors to seek assistance sooner if they or another appear to have consumed an unsafe amount.

Snyder said "ensuring the safety of our youth is a priority. Removing the fear of penalty when seeking emergency assistance can help save lives."

The bill is now Public Act 125.