ALBANY, N.Y. (WKBW) — New York State is now cracking down on underage drinking by launching a new effort for the month of April.
Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the joint push by the New York State Liquor Authority and Department of Motor Vehicles to sweep retailers and restaurants statewide that have liquor licenses, looking for fake IDs and whether those locations are selling alcohol to minors.
"These statewide enforcement sweeps are proactive measures to deter underage drinking that can lead to life-altering consequences," Governor Cuomo said. "New York is committed to building on our already successful efforts to protect our state's youth, keep our roadways safe and hold theose who enable underage drinking accountable."
The hope is that the sweeps will help prevent minors from buying and using fake IDs to buy alcohol and they come in the wake of the SLA and DMV's underage enforcement efforts last year. During that time, the DMV charged 892 people with having fake IDs.
Any minor caught with a fake ID can be arrested and have their license revoked for up to a year. Businesses caught selling to minors face up to $10,000 in fines per violation and employees at those companies who make the sales can also be arrested.
