Combating Underage Drinking

More money could soon be headed to cities in Southwest Arkansas to fight drinking underage. 350,000 dollars has been given to the state by the Department of Justice. Police in Texarkana, Arkansas say the extra funds are needed. "Miller County is pretty much the only place between here and Hot Springs that you can by alcohol, " said Officer Chris Rankin. Underage drinking is common in Texarkana, Arkansas. Police say so is dealing with teens from throughout the Ark-La-Tex. "If the word gets out someway or another and there is a liquor store that is selling to minors, they will come from all around." The Arkansas Delegation in Washington, D.C. has been working to provide funding to Arkansas law enforcement to help combat underage drinking. Congressman Mike Ross says it will be used to provide more patrols, education and training, aimed at keeping alcohol out of the hands of those under 21. "As the father of two teenagers I want to make sure our children remain safe and understand the dangers of underage drinking, we hope to provide the educational tools to help them say no." And officers say they are just glad to have lawmakers supporting their efforts. "If we are able to catch someone before they are 21 or a habitual drinker, we can send them to court and get them in alcohol programs, " said Rankin. The funding is provided through the Department of Justice and could soon be on the streets of Texarkana, Arkansas. "In order for us to have the officers and have them on the streets, the money has to come from somewhere." Departments interested in the extra funds can apply through the state. Along with putting more officers on the street, the money can be used for advertising campaigns and programs in schools.