JONES COUNTY, Iowa - A bill in the Iowa Legislature aims to cut down underage drinking and hold parents more accountable. Supporters call it the “Social Host” bill, as it would make it illegal for a person who owns or has control of a property to knowingly allow underage drinking there.

In Iowa, it is legal for an underage person to consume alcohol in a private home if their parents have given consent and are present. However, there is no law against those over 21 who knowingly allow underage people to drink in their home.

About 15 counties in Iowa have some sort of “Social Host” ordinance. That includes Linn, Dubuque, Jones, Washington, and Henry County. The main idea is the same, but there are small differences between them. That’s why some are in favor of a bill that would set one standard for the whole state.

Those in favor see it as a preventative bill, those opposed are concerned on the measures that would need to be taken to enforce it. The Jones County Safe and Healthy Youth Coalition is trying to educate the public on what that bill would do if passed.

“We all know that it was already illegal to purchase or give alcohol to youth, but what isn’t clearly illegal is to provide a place for underage drinking,” said Jennifer Husmann, the Project Coordinator at the coalition.

The bill aims to draw a clear line for adults hosting parties where people under 21 are present. So with the bill, if you know there is underage drinking, you would face a serious misdemeanor and pay a fine.

“It’s not so much kids going out and finding a spot on their own anymore, it’s more so they are finding a parent that will let them use their household or their barn, and they are well aware of it, they are supplying the alcohol,” said Tyler Jeffrey, a Sophomore at Anamosa High School.

“This is really for those who are knowingly allowing a place. This is not about those who are going on vacation and really trusted their 18 year old and something happened, they won’t be held accountable,” said Husmann.

Some counties have seen success in the ordinance working as a deterrent, but because it’s not a state-wide law, there is concern kids will take their party across county lines.

There are some opposed to the bill that said it would require warrants, breathalyzer testing, and the host to check everyone’s Identification. Some noting that it would force you to prove your innocent before someone else proves you guilty.

A social host bill was introduced last year, but it has not advanced very far in the legislative process. Some say wording on the bill will play a big role on how far it gets.