Pubdate: Sat, 24 Jun 2000 Source: Daily Southtown (IL) Copyright: 2000 Daily Southtown Contact: 6901 W. 159th St., Tinley Park, IL 60477 Fax: (708) 633-5999 Website: http://www.dailysouthtown.com/ Author: Jerry Elsner, Executive Director, Illinois State Crime Commission DRUGS AT CONCERTS 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 Sen. Patrick O'Malley (R-Palos Park), 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 that 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 rock 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 - ---