CONCERTS AND DRUGS

I noticed with great interest that many of those involved with
promoting and hosting rock concerts at area facilities oppose "The
Parents Empowerment Act," a recently introduced bill in the state
Senate, which would allow parents to sue those who knowingly allow
anyone under the age of 18 to use illegal drugs on their property.

The Illinois State Crime Commission worked with state Senator Patrick
O'Malley, a Palos Park Republican, the bill's sponsor, in developing
the proposal, which is recorded as SB 1964. As the commission's
executive director, I can tell you that some concert promoters have
good reason to be concerned about O'Malley's bill.

If approved, the measure would allow parents and guardians to sue
anyone who "sells, delivers or gives" illegal drugs to someone less
than 18 and also would allow parents to sue those who allow illegal
drug use to take place on their property.

It is widely known that many teens use illegal drugs while attending
rock concerts. Concert promoters and hosts understand they could be
held accountable for the actions of a 17-year-old who uses illegal
drugs while at a concert and then injures himself or someone else
afterward. O'Malley's proposal would allow parents to hold concert
promoters accountable for what goes on at their shows in the same
manner we now hold bartenders accountable for over serving intoxicated
patrons.

Most people attend rock concerts for an evening of entertainment.
Unfortunately, many teens choose to use drugs or alcohol while
attending concerts. The Crime Commission believes concert promoters
and hosts must do more to prevent illegal drug use on their premises
and should be held accountable for subsequent damages related to such
illegal activity.

The Illinois State Crime Commission encourages all Illinois citizens
(especially parents) to examine SB 1964 and contact their legislators
with their opinions.

Jerry Elsner,
Executive Director, Illinois State Crime Commission
Lisle