Information about alcohol laws throughout the United States
According to the US Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information website, all 50 states have laws prohibiting the consumption of alcohol by any one under the age of 21 with “limited exceptions relating to lawful employment, religious activities, or consent by a parent, guardian, or spouse.” The National Minimum Drinking Age Act was passed by Congress in 1984 and established 21 as the legal drinking age.
The Alcohol Policy Information System profiles each state’s underage drinking laws. For instances, many states have specific laws regarding the possession and consumption of alcohol by a person under the age of 21. In most states it is unlawful, with no exceptions, for a person to possess or consume alcohol if they are under the age of 21. In a handful of states, a person under the age of 21 may consume alcohol “if it is in the visible presence of the minor’s adult parent, guardian or spouse.”
Many states, such as Arizona, have “social host laws” that prohibit hosting underage drinking parties. For instance, a person who knows or should have known of the underage drinking party can be held liable for events on property they own, lease, or otherwise control.
Underage drinking is a serious offense in most states, as is furnishing alcohol to minors. It is important to make sure that you are providing a safe, healthy home for your children and any of their guests by not providing alcohol to underage persons.