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Louisiana prepares for Mardi Gras festivities by addressing underage drinking
By Staff Writer
 Mardi Gras is a time of celebration in Louisiana, but the festivities can turn dangerous when underage kids get their hands on alcohol. In an effort to prevent children from consuming alcoholic beverages during Mardi Gras this year, Louisiana law enforcement officials are attempting to raise awareness of underage drinking. Former State Senator Troy Hebert recently spoke out about the problem, claiming that while the celebration is going on, underage drinking can occur under the radar. Hebert and law enforcement officials are working with liquor vendors to make sure alcohol does not fall into the wrong hands, according to WWL-FM. In addition to fines, vendors who sell alcohol to kids may face jail time. Hebert stresses that the risk is not worth it and warns the public that law enforcement will be out in full force during the Mardi Gras celebration. Agents will be sent out to speak with individuals with liquor licenses in mid-February to caution them prior to Mardi Gras. The 2009 Youth Risk Behavior Survey revealed that 42 percent of high school students had consumed alcohol within a 30-day span, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Drug rehab programs can help kids who have become dependent on alcohol.
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