A new ordinance does more than send a message that St. Joseph is serious about stopping underage drinking.

The law will likely be effective in reducing minors’ access to alcohol. In the ongoing battle to curb underage drinking, that is a significant victory.

We commend the St. Joseph City Council for this week passing the ordinance that requires a license for every employee who sells or serves alcohol. The license will cost each individual $15 and includes training.

The St. Joseph Youth Alliance worked with law enforcement to build support for the measure. The Alliance has sponsored training courses for servers over the past few years. Of the more than 500 people who completed the training, only two failed a later compliance check.

We understand one more regulation will not solve underage drinking, a complex issue that is most effectively addressed at home. However, the community bears a responsibility to protect its youth, and this measure represents a practical step. Considering most teens who purchase alcohol do so from a convenience or grocery store, not from a bar, it is appropriate that the ordinance apply to all employees who sell or serve alcohol.

The council rightly questioned if the regulation would place a burden on businesses. We believe the $15 fee is reasonable for a license that is valid for three years. With local bar owners voicing their support, the ordinance received the council’s approval.

The city’s requirement for training and licensing is a proactive move in the fight against underage drinking, a battle that is well worth winning.