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EDITORIAL: Senate leader’s DUI sheds light on drunk driving

In the days since the arrest and resignation of Sheldon Killpack, the issue of drunk driving has again been thrown into the spotlight in our state, and the University Journal Editorial Board think it deserves more discussion.

Killpack, who led Utah Republican senators as majority leader, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol Friday and subsequently resigned his leadership position and senate seat Saturday.

In addition to being a long-time supporter of anti-drunk-driving legislation and a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Killpack’s father was killed by a drunk driver when he was a teenager.

Killpack’s unacceptable behavior highlights the fact that in Utah, drinking is treated too often as taboo that is not discussed openly between parents and their children.

Even people who are outwardly promoting family values and good moral character can struggle with substance abuse, which can lead to even more unhealthy behavior, including drunk driving.

Despite the fact that college students in Utah have the lowest percentage of binge drinking in the country, we think not fully considering the devastating effects alcohol can have or the possibility of it happening in your family is the wrong approach to take.

Some teens and young adults are inevitably going to drink, and education about responsible drinking is as important as education to not drink.

To say drinking is simply wrong and unhealthy is not enough education.
The U.S. Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration conducted a study, finding that college students enrolled full time were more likely to participate in binge drinking than non-students.

In 2008, 20 percent of automobile deaths in Utah were alcohol-related.
This is a constant issue, and any behavior that is risking the lives of others deserves extra attention.

SUU offers alcohol and other drug counseling services on campus, and the R.E.A.L. Peers focus on educating students about the dangers associated with drunk driving and other unhealthy behavior.

If you or a friend are struggling with a substance abuse issue, we recommend that you take advantage of these free services.

Perhaps if Killpack had had a close friend he could trust, he would not be in his current predicament.

The opinions expressed above are the collective perspective of the University Journal Editorial Board. The editorial board meets every Monday and Thursday at 5:30 p.m. in room 176C of the Sharwan Smith Center.

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