Contrary to comments in the Nov. 3 article "Plan irks public," nuisance ordinances are not unprecedented. Laws covering nuisance gatherings, nuisance parties or disorderly houses are on the books in dozens of communities.

These laws have been effectively applied for several years in many communities, including Gainesville, Syracuse, East Lansing, Fort Collins and Boulder.

Furthermore, these ordinances have been found to be constitutional in every state when they have been challenged.

These laws encourage responsible behavior.

Ordinances provide incentives for party hosts to plan so that adequate bathroom facilities, security, trash receptacles and alcohol service are present for guests.

Party hosts avoid becoming a nuisance by following alcohol laws on serving, providing adequate facilities and security, and doing what any responsible host does --cleaning up soon after the party.

Nuisance gathering ordinances can be a positive contribution to a safer, saner drinking environment in State College.

Penn State students should be working with State College leadership to pass a fair and effective ordinance.

Dennis Shea

professor of health policy and administration