The Zero Tolerance (ZT) Program is a court-ordered substance use service for people under age 21 who are charged with operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .02 to .08 or under the influence of other substances.
Under KRS 189A.010(1), these individuals must receive a screening or assessment and participate in education, mental health services, substance use treatment, or additional assessment based on their needs.
Program Description
Youth are referred by adult traffic court to a licensed ZT provider. The provider completes a screening or assessment to determine the appropriate level of service. Youth may participate in an evidence-based education program or be referred for additional assessment and treatment services when needed.
The program also serves youth who are at risk of becoming involved in or are already involved with the juvenile justice system and who are identified as using substances or at increased risk for substance use.
Program Outcomes
The ZT Program works to:
- Divert youth from further involvement with the juvenile justice system.
- Reduce repeat offenses among first- and second-time juvenile offenders.
- Reduce future alcohol- and other drug-related problems among youth.
Screenings, education, prevention and intervention strategies, treatment referrals, and connections to community resources support these outcomes. The program also helps youth reduce substance use, improve communication with parents or guardians, and make positive choices about peers and lifestyle.