A bill sponsored by State Senator David J. Cappiello, R-Danbury, that clarifies a state statute that permits patrons, under the age of 21, from entering nightclub-like establishments has unanimously passed both the
House of Representatives and Senate. According to Sen. Cappiello, the bill makes the police notification procedure, which clubs must follow before operating a juice bar, more specific. The bill now awaits the signature of
Gov. M. Jodi Rell who is expected to sign the legislation.

Under Sen. Cappiello's legislation, any tavern or establishment that sponsors an event that allows patrons under 21 from entering MUST notify their city or town's chief municipal law enforcement officer in writing at least 48 hours before a scheduled event. The legislation allows a local police chief to designate a law enforcement officer to attend such an event and whose hourly pay would be covered by the permit holder.

Sen. Cappiello said that he has heard complaints from many local residents who believe that unregulated juice bars have become more than just a nuisance. There are also concerns that such venues expose minors to alcohol, which could lead to underage drinking. He credited members of the Danbury House delegation for their efforts in getting the bill passed in the House of Representatives.

Sen. Cappiello, who serves as Ranking Member of the legislature's General Law Committee, which oversees issues related to the purchase of alcohol, says that this legislation will have no effect on restaurants or concert venues. "This legislation does not in any way prohibit a venue from having a juice bar, it simply allows the local police chief to determine if there needs to be a police officer on hand to ensure the safety of everyone in attendance. That being said it should be up to the establishment to make sure all costs associated with providing a police officer are covered. I think it is a reasonable solution," said Sen. Cappiello.

"If a local police chief determines that there might be a problem at a specific venue then he or she can simply assign an officer to oversee an event to make sure our laws regarding underage drinking are being strictly enforced," said Sen. Cappiello. "This legislation does not say that those under 21 cannot go out and have fun. But these venues do serve alcohol and it is imperative that we make sure those being served are of legal drinking age."