WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina | SC schools chief asks teens not to drink in radio ad

SC schools chief asks teens not to drink in radio ad

COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) - Wednesday State School Superintendent Jim Rex unveiled a new radio ad aimed at reducing underage drinking.
    
The ad isn't costing taxpayers any money, and Dr. Rex hopes it saves money in the long run.

"This is State Superintendent of Education Jim Rex, reminding South Carolinians that underage drinking is illegal and dangerous," Rex says in the ad.

It's a new radio ad aimed at teens, encouraging them not to drink.

"This is something that is serious for our state, serious for our young people," he says.

So serious that Dr. Rex partnered with the South Carolina Beer Wholesalers Association to create a public service announcement.

"Let's all work together to make sure South Carolina teenagers know the dangers of underage drinking," he says.

"This is the time, especially the holiday season that it's critical to get this message out," says Murray Baroody.

The ads begin this week and run on more than 200 radio stations state-wide for the rest of the school year.

"The consequences are so serious that parents and young people need to be reminded and we think reminded on a regular basis," says Rex.

The costs related to underage drinking like medical bills, legal fees and vehicle damage add up to millions of dollars each year.
    
Dr. Rex hopes the ad saves the state's teenagers.

"How do you put a price on one teenager's life or the damage that's done to a family when this illegal activity is engaged in?" asks Rex. "I'm asking you to help South Carolina's youth make responsible decisions."

The message is clear, and Dr. Rex just wants you to listen.

Reported by Brandi Cummings

Posted by Logan Smith