Alcohol

A first-time offense for possession or consumption of alcohol by a minor is an infraction punishable by a fine of $300. A second offense is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $2,000, up to 30 days in jail, or both. Third and subsequent convictions are punishable by a fine up to $3,000, up to 60 days in jail, or both. A first misdemeanor conviction also carries a suspension of driving privileges for up to a year. Subsequent misdemeanor convictions can have a driver’s license suspension of up to two years.

It is illegal for anyone to sell or give alcohol to anyone under 21, or to allow anyone under 21 to buy or drink alcohol in a bar, restaurant, or store. This is a misdemeanor that carries a fine of up to $1,000 and jail time of up to a year. If it is a business that is selling to minors, there is a possibility of a loss of he liquor license for the establishment, and a fine for the employee responsible.

Even if you are over 21, if you cannot provide identification to prove it, a clerk or bartender cannot sell you alcohol. However, if you are over 19, you may serve or dispense alcoholic beverages during your job at a place licensed to sell liquor.

The police will also charge anyone over the age of eighteen (18) with providing alcohol to a minor if there are minors present consuming in the consumption of alcohol at a “house party”.

It is illegal to drink alcohol while driving or to drive under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, even if the drugs are legal. Walking home drunk or under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be illegal if you pose a hazard to yourself or others or step off a sidewalk onto a road.

If you are under 21, you cannot drive with 0.02% alcohol in your blood; if you are over 21, you cannot drive with 0.08% alcohol in your blood. If you refuse to take a test for blood alcohol or drug levels, you may still be prosecuted for driving under the influence and can receive a fine of $250 and a one-year suspension of your driver’s license. There are also additional consequences for failure to comply with the test. If you are convicted of a DUI, you can receive an additional fine of $1,000, and may receive probation and be asked to attend a drug and alcohol awareness program.

If you are using someone else’s driver’s license or alter your own to make it look like you are 21, you are breaking the law. The person who gave you their identification is guilty of a crime as well. You cannot lend, borrow, or alter a driver’s license or other form of identification in any way. In addition to any penalties that may be imposed, driving privileges may be suspended for a period of 90 days.