Bill Caption

Relating to civil liability for the provision of an alcoholic beverage to a minor.

Fiscal Notes

The Office of Court Administration indicates that no significant fiscal implication to local courts is expected. No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

As noted accurately and succinctly by the Legislative Budget Board: "The bill would amend the Alcoholic Beverage Code relating to civil liability for the provision of an alcoholic beverage to a minor. The bill would delete the language "under the age of 18", thereby extending section 2.02 of the Alcoholic Beverage Code to include all minors under the age of 21."

Currently, an adult 21 years or older who gives alcohol to a minor under the age of 18 can be held civilly liable for actions of the minor should they proceed to get drunk and cause bodily harm or death. This bill would extend the civil liability for the adult so that it also covers giving alcohol to all minors under the age of 21.

Vote Recommendation Notes

This is more of a technical than substantive change to statute to cover an age gap not already covered. To some extent this places the responsibility for the actions of the underage drinker on the adult facilitator. On the other hand, it is already illegal to give alcohol to a minor so there is at least some degree of responsibility that is rightly placed with the facilitator. We are neutral on this legislation.