The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the State Liquor Authority (SLA) have reported a decrease in the number of citations issued for fake IDs during their annual summer crackdown. The enforcement drive, which concluded on September 29, targeted summer concert venues and other places where young people gather across the state. This year, 307 people were cited and 349 fake IDs were seized, a slight decrease from the 312 citations and 389 fake licenses confiscated in 2023. In 2022, more than 550 people were charged.
DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder expressed satisfaction with the declining numbers, stating, "We are happy to say that these numbers have been declining in recent years. We hope the message is being heard that summer concerts should be enjoyed without putting health and safety at risk." according to the DMV's official website.
The DMV works directly with concert venues to check for fake identifications and also focuses on bars and restaurants where underage patrons may attempt to buy alcoholic beverages. SLA Chair Lily Fan echoed Schroeder's sentiments, stating, "Ensuring that alcohol stays out of the hands of our underage youth is in the New York State Liquor Authority's mission." as reported by 13WHAM.