Rainier’s new underage drinking law will hold parents, property owners accountable

A new law passed in Rainier aimed at curbing underage drinking is set to take effect next month.
The small community in Thurston County recently became second city in the state to pass a “social host law,” which holds parents and homeowners responsible for underage drinking at their homes, even if they are out of town and unaware it is happening.
A similar law in Mercer Island took effect in January and police handed out the first citation under the new ordinance in March.
“This isn’t just about enforcement; it’s about educating our community that there is never a safe time for minors to consume alcohol,” Rainier Mayor Randy Schleis said in a statement.
“I think it’s going to help,” added Tameka Brice, a Rainier High School graduate. “Since 2004, four people I’ve known have been killed by drunk driving.”
The law will take effect on June 21.
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