Just in time for the fall semester, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced coordinated efforts to stop underage drinking on and near college campuses.

The New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services , the New York State Liquor Authority, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, and the New York State Police are aligning resources to prevent underage drinking on college campuses and in college towns across New York.

"Underage drinking can lead to life-altering consequences for college students, and as the fall semester gets underway, we are working to educate college students about this reckless behavior," Gov. Cuomo stated. "These coordinated efforts will build on our progress to help avoid needless tragedies and create a safer learning environment on campuses statewide."

The crackdown plans to train bar workers to spot underage drinkers, form outreach programs, prevention efforts, and raids on college campuses and nearby bars.

“The start of the school year is a critical time to reach our students before underage drinking becomes an issue that impacts the safety of our students and our communities,” SUNY University Police Commissioner Paul M. Berger said. “The Governor’s coordination of state resources is certain to boost SUNY's own efforts to meet with and educate incoming freshman and communicate with returning students.”

According to the Governor’s office, over 1,800 college students die from alcohol-related injuries. 696,000 college students are assaulted by another student that has been drinking. 97,000 college students experience alcohol-related sexual assault.

The NYS OASAS reports drinking alcohol before age 21 can interfere with brain development, causing potential learning difficulties. Early alcohol use is associated with poor grades, absenteeism, and higher school dropout rates.

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