Consequences of Supplying Alcohol To Minors

Recent Minnesota laws should make any adult think twice about providing alcohol to minors -- they can be charged with a gross misdemeanor, and go to jail for up to one year and be fined up to $3,000.  In addition, any adult who provides alcohol to an underage drinker can be sued for any damages that result.

Never Provide Alcohol to Teens -- It's Illegal, Unsafe, and It Can Cost You!

• Teens in Washington County report that friends' parties, family members, and getting someone to buy it for them are their top sources of alcohol.  (Source: Washington County Results of the 2001 Minnesota Student Survey)
• Results of alcohol compliance checks conducted in Washington County during 2002 indicate that youth were able to purchase alcohol an average of 7% of the time from bars, restaurants, liquor stores and convenience stores.
• 24% of 12th graders report drinking and driving in the last year and 34% report riding with friends who have been drinking.  (Source: Washington County Results of the 2001 Minnesota Student Survey)
• The only people under age 21 that you can legally give alcohol to are your own children, under your supervision, in your own home.

• Never buy alcohol for your teen, their friends, or anyone under 21.
• Do not allow your teen to have parties with alcohol on your property.
• Network with other parents, and let them know that you do not want alcohol available.
• Tell your teen that it is against the family rules for them to drink alcohol.
• Talk and listen to your children. Be straightforward and honest with them about the real impact of alcohol.
• If you choose to use alcohol, use it responsibly. Remember, you are your children’s role model.
• Let law enforcement know about any establishments or people providing alcohol to anyone under 21.

• Establish basic ground rules. Stress that responsibility for hosting the party belongs to both you and your teen. Create a guest list and stick to it; this eliminates the possibility of uninvited guests. Be sure to let your teen know in advance that alcohol and other drug use is strictly prohibited.
• You and your teen should know the law and the consequences of providing alcohol or other drugs. You are legally responsible for anything that happens to a minor who has been served alcohol or uses other drugs in your home.
• Stay home during the party. Provide adequate supervision without going overboard. Don't hang around, but be seen regularly.
• Be aware of the signs of alcohol and other drug use. Don't allow guests to come and go; this reduces the risk of teens going off to drink and use drugs and then return.
• Ask people to leave if they try to bring in alcohol and other drugs. Call the police if anyone you ask to leave refuses to do so.
• Contact the parents of anyone who arrives at the party under the influence. Do not allow anyone who is drunk to drive home. Provide transportation.
• Plan a party with a theme, and games. Be sure to keep refreshments and non-alcoholic beverages well stocked. Get out and meet your teen's friends.
• Tell the police and your neighbors you are having a party. Discuss an agreeable parking plan. The police will help protect all that are involved in the party: your guests, your neighbors and you.

• Call the host. Know where your teen will be, how long, and what will and will not be served. Do not allow your teen to attend if alcohol is being served. Verify with the parent of the party giver that the party will be well chaperoned.
• Be aware of how your teen will get to and from the party. Tell your child never to ride home with a driver who is under the influence of alcohol and/or other drugs. Talk to your child about situations where he or she should call for a ride home.
• Set the time your teen will be expected to get home. Be awake or have your teen awaken you upon arrival.
• If your child stays with a friend overnight, check with the friend's parents to verify the plans. Don't allow last minute "spontaneous" sleepovers, if possible.