Editorial: Minor in possession laws are unreasonable

By: Editorial Board

Posted: 9/9/08

One of the most common charges brought against UConn students is that of possession of alcohol by a minor. This means that the minor, who can be anyone under 21, has been found to have alcohol in his or her possession (whether on foot, in the dorm, or in a vehicle). In the state of Connecticut, minors in possession of alcohol can be fined over $100 and have their drivers license suspended for up to six months, regardless of where the alcohol was found, or any other extenuating circumstances. This law is excessive in its punishment of the accused, in contradiction to many other alcohol related laws in Connecticut which are not particularly severe (such as DUI laws).

There is no doubt that if minors (or anyone else for that matter) are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, their licenses should be suspended, if not revoked. However, if a minor is in possession of alcohol on foot and not driving, that minor should not be subjected to six months of license suspension, primarily because the punishment does not fit the crime. If a minor is not driving, and for that matter does not even have car keys in his or her possession, he or she should not be subject to driver's license suspension. The commission of the possible crime has nothing to do with a motor vehicle, and as such the punishment should not involve a motor vehicle.

Drivers license suspensions are not only an enormous legal and practical inconvenience, but also an excessive financial burden. Those whose licenses are suspended - for any reason - will almost definitely see their car insurance rates skyrocket. The insurance companies don't care (and in some cases don't know) whether or not the suspension had anything to do with an actual car. To make a minor, who already has little or no income, pay hundreds or thousands more in car insurance because they made the decision to drink - and not drive - is the definition of excessive. Additionally, the suspension of a minor's driver's license can cause enormous difficulty as far as commuting to school and work. Adults who are on house arrest for more serious crimes are even allowed exemptions to drive to and from work and school. The same courtesies, legal entitlements and protections afforded to adults should be afforded to minors as well.