SF 2310 – Underage Possession or Consumption of Alcohol (“Social Host” bill)
FLOOR ACTION:
SF 2310 is commonly referred to as the “social host” bill. The bill initially passed the Senate on March 3. The bill that passed the Senate provided that a person with control over property that is not licensed to sell alcoholic beverages commits a simple misdemeanor if they knowingly permit others who are under the legal drinking age to consume or possess alcoholic beverages on the property. A first-time violation is punishable by a fine of $200. Second and subsequent offenses are punishable by a fine of $500. The bill also prohibits the “consumption” of alcohol by those under the legal drinking age. Current specific Code sections prohibit the purchase, attempt to purchase, possession or control of alcoholic beverages by certain underage persons, but not the consumption. The House amended the bill by limiting the offense to those who allow persons under 18 (as opposed to anyone under age 21) to consume or possess alcohol on their property. In addition, the House amendment excluded landlords and property managers from those who could be charged with violating the “social host” law. The Senate concurred in the House amendment. [4/10: 47-0 (Bertrand, Chelgren, Sinclair absent)]