Lifeline passes Senate, awaits governor's signature

A bill granting limited immunity to underage drinkers across the state is heading to Gov. Mitch Daniels’ desk to be signed into law.

The Indiana Senate approved the Indiana Lifeline Bill, SB 274, by a unanimous 47-0 vote on Thursday. The vote marks the bill’s clearing of the Legislature.

If Daniels signs the bill, those who seek medical attention on behalf of an intoxicated minor will not face legal repercussions in certain situations.

This legislation would encourage students to seek emergency help for others without facing arrest themselves.

The bill will apply in certain instances of alcohol overuse, such as public intoxication and minor possession, but not for other forms of drug possession or use.

IU Student Association President Justin Kingsolver, who helped spearhead the student-led effort to bring Lifeline to the state Legislature, said he expects the governor will sign the bill, given its unanimous passing in the House and Senate.

After passing 50-0 in the Senate on Jan. 24, the bill passed in the House 96-0 on Feb. 14.

To reconcile the two slightly different versions of the bill, legislators sent it back to the Senate for a concurrence vote on Thursday.

The bill, if signed, would take effect July 1.

­— Matthew Glowicki