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Bill May Aid Underage Drinkers Seeking Help

LANSING (AP) - Some underage drinkers who seek medical help would get amnesty from prosecution under a bill approved by the Michigan House.

The bill approved by a 105-4 vote Tuesday advances to the Senate.

Supporters of the legislation say it may prompt more underage drinkers to seek medical help after they or someone else drinks too much. Lawmakers say some young drinkers don't seek medical help under current law because they fear they'll get in trouble for possessing alcohol.

The proposal offers amnesty to minors who have been drinking if they seek help for themselves or another minor whose drinking may constitute a medical crisis.

The bill doesn't provide amnesty for driving under the influence of alcohol, however.

© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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