Portsmouth To Give Students Breathalyzer Tests

The Portsmouth School Committee has approved a new policy, allowing school officials to give students Breathalyzers tests at school events, including dances, reports WPRI.com. 

The policy was approved at the school committee meeting on Tuesday night.

The policy will go into effect for this Saturday's homecoming dance at Portsmouth High School. 

The Breathalyzer tests, however, will not be given just to students suspected of underage drinking. Students will be asked to draw a ticket, which may select them for the Blood Alcohol Count test. If they refuse, they will not be allowed into the dance, according to WPRI.com. In addition, students who take the Breathalyzer will be entered into a raffle to win a prize. 

The policy is an expansion of an existing rule, according to Portsmouth School Committee member David Croston. 

"We approved a policy on Tuesday expanding our existing policy of Breathalyzer use for suspect use to a broader random screening," Croston said. "In the case of random screening, an event must be designated, a random screening plan submitted to superintendent for approval, the kids informed, and procedures in place to assist the kids." 

School officials in Tiverton are also considering adopting a similar Breathalyzer for students at school events. 

What do you think about the policy? Should students be given Breathalyzers at school events, such as dances and sport games? Tell us your thoughts in the comment section below.