By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, Mo. – A legislative committee studying the problem of under-age drinking met for the first time Monday.
The lawmakers are hearing from state officials, law enforcement and advocacy groups about what's being done by public and private groups to combat minors' access to alcohol.
The group plans several meetings around the state this summer.
It expects to report to the Missouri Legislature by the end of the year on what programs are effective, what needs work and if any changes in the law are needed.
The committee estimates that under-age drinking had a cost of more than $1 billion in 2001, including medical care, lost work time, pain and suffering.