Fate of American River Alcohol Ban in Legislators' Hands

It's true Sacramento County officials will mull over the events that lead to the arrest of 23 people along the American River during the "" event. Whether or not that means extending the existing holiday alcohol ban along the American River, however, remains a subject state legislators will ultimately have to decide.

Howard Schmidt, chief of staff for Fair Oaks' District 3 County Representative Susan Peters, explained county supervisors would discuss extending the ban after last weekend's "Rafting Gone Wild," an event that drew more than 3,000 revelers to the river, but ultimately any decision will require state legislation.

Schmidt explained the jurisdiction of Sacramento County supervisors extend up to the American River but not within it. That waterway and any laws, bans or ordinances are regulated and mandated by state legislation.

The call for further expansion of the alcohol ban comes on the heels of the rafting event which is being held accountable for the 23 people arrested, a violent brawl that broke out on a popular section of the American River and the assault law and rescue authorities claim they encountered.

The current alcohol ban extends from the Hazel Avenue bridge to Watt Ave. during the Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day holidays.

Schmidt also confirmed the Board of Supervisors has no official recommendation how the ban could be extended.

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