Melissa Woodward, Tempe USG senator, on Feb. 10, 2015 at the Memorial Union in Tempe. Melissa Woodward presented SB 64 Senate Replacement Provision, which caused a heated debate. (Krista Tillman/The State Press)The Tempe Undergraduate Student Government voted Tuesday to support a medical amnesty bill going through the state Legislature.
USG Senate Bill 62, introduced by the University Affairs Committee, would allow Tempe USG to support Arizona Senate Bill 1190.
SB 1190, authored by Sen. Kelli Ward, R-Lake Havasu City, states individuals under the legal drinking age would be immune from criminal prosecution if they contacted law enforcement or emergency medical services for themselves or another intoxicated minor.
Nicholas Haney, USG senator for College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, said SB 1190 will affect youth across the state, not just ASU students.
“It’s important to note that this bill doesn't support underage drinking but supports legislation that will help Arizona youth,” Haney said. “We are working with student governments to encourage campus-wide support.”
Senator Evan Rock, also representing the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, agreed the bill was necessary for students who may need to call 911.
“Saving a life is more important than getting a (minor in consumption of alcohol citation),” Haney said.
SB 1190 will be heard in the state Senate Judiciary Committee on Feb. 19 at 9 a.m. Students wanting to support this bill are encouraged to attend an informational meeting on Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. in the Memorial Union La Paz room 242 for additional information.
Reach the reporter at Jlsuerth@asu.edu or follow @SuerthJessica on Twitter.
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