ST. JOSEPH - St. Joseph is the latest area city to pass a social host ordinance.

During this (Thursday) evenings meeting, the council voted in favor of the ordinance, which is meant to discourage underage drinking.

St. Joseph police chief Pete Jansky says the person who hosts the event doesn't have to be present at the event either.  Violation of the ordinance is a misdemeanor.

St. Joseph's social host ordinance is exactly the same as St. Cloud's.

It will go into effect on March 1st.  Jansky says his department will be working with the College of St. Benedict to inform the students about the new rules.

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