Social Host Ordinance
About Social Host
Ordinance (SHO)
A Social Host Ordinance (SHO) is a crucial local law designed to address the pressing issue of underage drinking and drug use within our communities. This ordinance holds adults accountable for the provision and consumption of alcohol, cannabis, or other controlled substances by underage individuals on
their property.
What is a
Social Ordinance?
A Social Host Ordinance specifically targets adults who knowingly allow minors to consume alcohol, cannabis, or other drugs at parties, gatherings, or events held on their premises. The ordinance extends beyond existing laws that already prohibit furnishing alcohol or cannabis to minors by making it illegal to provide an environment where underage substance use occurs. This includes not only illegal substances but also prescription and illicit drugs.
The Need for a
Social Host Ordinance
Statistics show that a significant number of youths are first exposed to alcohol and drugs at social events.
According to the 2007 California Healthy Kids Survey, 41% of Contra Costa County 11th graders reported drinking alcohol in the past 30 days, surpassing the state average. Moreover, 79% of 11th graders indicated that it was “very easy” or “fairly easy” to obtain alcohol.
The Richmond Police Department data revealed that between January and December 2022, there were 452 calls for service due to unruly parties, indicating the prevalence of such events. This data underscores the necessity for a SHO to mitigate the risks associated with underage drinking and drug use at these gatherings.
How the Social Host
Ordinance Works
In cities that have implemented SHOs, such as Pittsburg, Orinda, Novato, and San Rafael, the ordinance applies to any social occasion where underage individuals may consume substances. The “Social Host” is defined broadly to include anyone who owns, rents, leases, or controls the premises, as well as the person in charge or organizer of the event.
For a first-time offense, adults who permit underage substance use on their property may face a 3-6 hour educational diversion course and an administrative fee. This proactive approach emphasizes education and prevention, aiming to reduce the likelihood of repeat offenses.
Benefits of a Social Host
Ordinance
SHOs send a powerful message to the community that youth
substance use is unacceptable and dangerous. By holding adults
accountable, these ordinances aim to decrease the availability of
alcohol and drugs to minors, thereby reducing the risk of early
substance use and its associated problems.
Research supports the effectiveness of SHOs. Children who learn about the risks of drugs from their parents are up to 50% less likely to use alcohol. Furthermore, early alcohol consumption is linked to higher chances of developing alcohol problems later in life. The American Medical Association has highlighted that alcohol can cause
irreversible damage to the adolescent brain, particularly affecting
areas responsible for judgment, decision-making, and memory.
Richmond’s Commitment
to Youth Safety
Richmond is committed to joining other Bay Area cities in implementing a Social Host Ordinance. Councilmember Soheila Bana, a strong supporter of the initiative, has expressed her intent to bring the ordinance to the council for approval. This ordinance will help protect our youth by creating safer environments and holding adults responsible for their role in preventing underage substance use.
By adopting a Social Host Ordinance, Richmond aims to foster a healthier, safer community where youth can thrive without the risks posed by early exposure to alcohol and drugs. Together, we can make a difference in safeguarding the well-being of our young people.
