The Interfraternity Council will discuss and possibly vote tonight on implementing a risk-management policy to reduce NIU fraternities’ liability for alcohol-related accidents.

Two members from each fraternity chapter sit on the IFC and will attend the meeting at the Holmes Student Center’s Heritage Room at 8 p.m., said Jeff Cufaude, activities adviser for University Programming and Activities.

Cufaude said he will attend the meeting to answer additional questions. But, he said the policy was drawn up by the IFC’s risk-reduction committee and most questions will be answered by committee members.

IFC President Tom Zur said several of the guidelines include providing an escort service for female guests to ensure they will arrive home safely and utilizing the Student Association’s dial-a-ride service.

“No charging will be allowed for social functions—no selling empty cups,” Zur said. Under the risk-reduction policy, fraternity members will watch for intoxicated people and reserve the right to stop serving them alcoholic beverages, he said.

Jeff Parker, IFC’s risk-reduction committee chairman, said a ticket system will be implemented for all fraternities as part of the policy. He said tickets will limit the number of people who can enter a party.

Monitors who do not consume alcohol must be present at each party, Zur said. Food and non-alcoholic beverages must be provided as well, he said.

The IFC’s guidelines will be enforced by a party patrol consisting of IFC members, Zur said.

Parker said penalties for breaking the IFC’s guidelines can result in a fine of up to $500, and the status of an offending chapter can be put on probation from the IFC.

“The alcohol policies are our (IFC) own,” Zur said. The policies are actions to take responsibility to prevent an accident before it happens, he said.

The IFC is not being forced to pass these alcohol policies, Zur said. Rather, the IFC is trying to implement the policies to ensure the maximum success of fraternity parties, he said.

Cufaude said fraternities have to abide by university alcohol guidelines as well. He said the IFC is trying to implement its own risk-reduction guidelines in addition to NIU’s.