Governor Signs SEA 274 into Law

Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels

Governor Mitch Daniels signed Senate Enrolled Act 274 into law Friday, known as the “Indiana Lifeline Law.”

The legislation provides immunity for certain alcohol-related offenses committed by minors who seek emergency medical assistance.

Daniels says he is proud of the college students who pushed for a new law designed to encourage people to seek medical help for those who are dangerously intoxicated. The law shields people from arrest on public intoxication or underage drinking charges if they get help for someone facing an alcohol-related emergency.

Supporters hope the law that takes effect July 1 will make college students and others more likely to report alcohol poisoning.

The state reports 21 underage drinkers have died in Indiana since 2004 because of alcohol poisoning.