Assemblyman John F. McKeon

ASSEMBLY ADVANCES McKEON MEASURE MAKING 'TEEN NIGHTS' AT CLUBS SAFER

(TRENTON) - Legislation Assemblyman John F. McKeon sponsored to make "teen nights" safer for patrons was passed by the General Assembly today by a vote of 70-7-2.

Under the legislation (A-2325), a "teen night" event is defined as a social gathering held for individuals under the legal drinking age at establishments, other than bowling alleys, primarily devoted to the sale and service of alcoholic beverages for on-premise consumption, dancing, or entertainment.

"The idea behind a bar or night club hosting a teen night or an all-ages show is sound, but the way these events are currently conducted leaves much to be desired in terms of safety," said McKeon (D-Essex).  "New Jersey teens deserve a safe environment in which to gather and have fun, and parents deserve the piece of mind of knowing that their children will be safe at such gatherings."

McKeon's legislation would require any Class C liquor license holders to take the following precautions when hosting a "teen night" event:

• Arrange for security, to be provided by uniformed police officers, at a ratio of one police officer per 150 attendees;

• Prohibit persons under 15 years of age from attending the event without a parent or guardian;

• Require criminal history background checks of all current and prospective employees; and

• Prohibit the hiring of individuals required to register as sex offenders under Megan's Law.

"By making 'teen nights' safer, we help ensure that our children are not thrust into dangerous and potentially life-threatening situations they are not mature enough to handle," said McKeon.  "And that should give everyone - parents, club owners, and teenagers themselves - reason to breathe a sigh of relief."

The legislation now heads to the Senate for further consideration.

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