30 Apr 2008

Under 21 year olds in American Samoans banned from drinking or possessing alcohol

10:14 am on 30 April 2008

American Samoans under 21 won't be allowed to consume or possess alcohol after the territorial government approved a bill.

The territory's Governor, Togiola Tulafono, has signed into law a bill which makes it a crime for people under 21 to consume or possess alcohol.

Governor Togiola says domestic violence, driving under the influence and public peace disturbances are just some of the crimes that result when alcohol is consumed without responsibility.

The governor says the bill is a step towards reducing social problems.

The Assistant Attorney General, Faamomoi Masaniai, says in the last year more than 90 percent of youth crimes were committed while they were under the influence of the drug.