Prom and Graduation Season Brings Warning About New York Social Host Laws

Law Enforcement Warns Parents on Social Host Laws

It's a busy season with prom and graduation on the way for many New York students, and with that comes many parties and teens out and about.

Local law enforcement is reminding parents that these events can turn into underage drinking, drug use and medical emergencies.

In a statement on social media Bedford Police Department writes "Let’s help keep our teens and community safe together for all." BPD adds this warning as well, writing:

Poor choices or irresponsible decisions by both teens and adults can lead to criminal charges or worse, tragic outcomes.

Parents Can Be Charged for Hosting Events With Underage Drinking

The Westchester County DA website explains that parents and adults "have a special responsibility" when hosting parties.

The website goes on to state:

Under the Westchester County ‘Social Host Law,’ it is unlawful for any person over the age of 21 to “knowingly allow” or “to fail to take reasonable corrective action upon becoming aware of” the consumption of alcohol by minors in his or her residence.

This social host law was put into effect "to deter the consumption of alcoholic beverages by minors by holding those persons who are 21 years old or more responsible."

The first 2 offenses of the social host law can result in fines. However, a third offense is considered a misdemeanor "which could result in a criminal conviction and jail time."

Learn more at WestchesterDA.net.

End of The School Year Can Be a Dangerous Time For Young Drivers

With graduation season on the mind...have you heard of the 100 Deadliest Days?

It's the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day when, according to AAA, 8 people are are "killed per day in teen-involved driving crashes in the summer."

AAA reports that across the U.S. 13,135 people have been killed in an accident involving a teenaged driver from 2019 through 2023.

More than 30% of those deaths take between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

In April 2026 the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee kicked off their annual "No Empty Chair" campaign.

This campaign raises awareness "among younger drivers to help prevent crashes and fatalities and make sure there are no empty chairs for prom and graduation season."

Learn more about the No Empty Chair campaign and data on teen driving accidents on the New York State DMV website.