Teenagers Lobby for Beer Keg Registration

By Mark Geary, Reporter

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By Mark Geary

Story Created: Jan 29, 2007 at 9:13 PM CST

Story Updated: Jan 29, 2007 at 10:01 PM CST

DES MOINES -- A group of Eastern Iowa students want legislators to crack down on underage drinking.

They feel beer keg registration could help keep alcohol away from teens.

"I just think it's important for us to really stand up and say, 'Hey, there are those of us that aren't drinking. We don't want this to be happening. We want people to be held accountable," Monticello High School senior Angel Farris said.

The proposed bill would force businesses to place a tracking number on every keg they sell. Adults would sign a form linking them to that tracking number. Then, if police bust a party with underage drinking, they'll know who bought the keg.

"There's a lot of it that goes on even in small towns. It really shouldn't be happening," Farris said.

About 100 high school students from all around the state lobbied for the keg tags.

"It's very refreshing to see so many people that are actually here with us that are on the same page," Monticello High School senior Melanie Paulsen said.

Some communities like Marion already have a keg ordinance in place, but students say a statewide law would be much more effective.

Even though their trip to the capital was brief, students believe they made a real difference. They're confident beer keg registration will become a state law.

Next Article Field of Dream Project Advances to Full Iowa Senate

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