Politics & Government

Should Public Drunkenness Be Outlawed in Islip?

Babylon Town just made it illegal, should other LI towns follow suit?

Babylon Town has made it illegal to be drunk in a public place or venue, such as a cabaret, and most Patch readers aren't very happy with the decision.

The law, passed unanimously at Babylon Town Hall last Thursday, makes  appearing intoxicated in public a misdemeanor offense throughout the town's borders, including the villages of Amityville, Babylon and Lindenhurst. 

Breaking the new law could cost the accused between $250 and $1,000, or up to 90 days in jail. Fines could reach as high as $5,000 for repeat offenders.

Given the proximity of West Islip and the village, Patch wonders what West Islip residents think of the law, whether it will curtail their visits to restaurants and bars along Deer Park Avenue and Main Street.

Readers questioned the enforceability but most of all the need for such a law given the already in place public disturbance laws and drinking related laws. In fact no one commenting believes it's useful and one went as far as calling it a communism act.

Tell us below what you think Islip should do or not do, and if the Babylon law will stop you from enjoying a drink in the village.



Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here