Senate Cracks Down on Underage Drinking

Associated Press

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma Senate has given final approval to a bill cracking down on party bus companies that condone underage drinking.

The measure by Sen. Debbe Leftwich of Oklahoma City passed 44-0 Thursday. The bill now goes to the House for a final vote. If approved, it will go to Gov. Brad Henry for his signature.

The bill would make it a misdemeanor for the owner or operator of a hired bus or limousine to knowingly transport minors who are drinking or are in possession of alcohol or low-point beer.

Leftwich says she filed the bill after learning that some students at Santa Fe High School rented a party bus and drank on the way to last year's prom. Some were intoxicated by the time they arrived.