Minors to receive limited legal immunity through LB 439
LINCOLN, Neb. – Senator Adam Morfeld’s (District 46) LB 439, which grants limited legal immunity to minors seeking help for themselves or someone else in need of immediate attention due to alcohol poisoning, officially took effect Aug. 30. The law will only apply to an individual who: (1) is experiencing an alcohol overdose; (2) calls for medical assistance; and (3) stays on the scene and cooperates fully with law enforcement when medical attention arrives. Nebraska will now join over 20 states
“Given recent tragic events in Lincoln and elsewhere, it is important to put the safety of our youth first and provide the opportunity to seek critical medical attention without fear of the law,” Senator Morfeld stated.
Alongside the bill, the Nebraska Collegiate Consortium is implementing a public campaign to educate minors and the public about the bill and its intention, as well as properly identifying acute alcohol intoxication.
The campaign’s tagline, “You Make the Call,” encourages underage callers and others to seek help for intoxicated friends and cooperate with first responders. The campaign will be deployed using social media ads via Twitter, Facebook and Instagram as well as YouTube commercials and posters.
At Chadron State College, questions regarding the legislation may be directed to Dr. Pat Beu, senior director of student affairs, at pbeu@csc.edu, 308-432-6280 or Crites Hall Room 337. Billie Knifong with Residence Life plans several student activities related to the "You Make the Call" campaign throughout 2015-16.
—CSC College Relations
Category: Campus News