Lesson 2: Minors and Alcohol Sales

Study Notes

Know the Law

Sellers and servers of alcohol must prevent illegal sales to minors.
Familiarity with laws regarding minors and alcohol sales is crucial.

Laws About Minors and Alcohol

A minor is anyone under 21 years old, as defined by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code.
It is illegal for minors to purchase, possess, or consume alcoholic beverages.

Legal Conditions for Minors

Minors may purchase alcohol if under the supervision of a commissioned peace officer.
Minors legally possess alcohol if working as employees selling or serving it, in specific conditions such as:
- Working as a cashier for sales of alcohol for on-premise consumption (effective from 5/1/2015).
- In the visible presence of an adult parent, guardian, or spouse over 21.
- Under police supervision during enforcement operations like Minor Sting Operations.

Legal Tasting of Alcohol

Minors enrolled in specific college courses may legally taste alcohol but must spit it out afterward.

Penalties for Underage Alcohol Offenses

Legal consequences for minors include various penalties for illegal actions like purchasing or consuming alcohol.

First Offense Consequences

Classified as a Class C Misdemeanor.
Possible penalties include:
- Fine up to $500.
- Mandatory attendance to an alcoholic awareness course.
- Community service ranging from 8 to 12 hours.
- 30-day suspension of driving license or permit.

Second Offense Consequences

Still a Class C Misdemeanor with similar penalties as the first offense but with increased community service:
- Fine up to $500.
- Attendance at an alcoholic awareness course.
- Community service ranging from 20 to 40 hours.
- 60-day suspension of driving license or permit.

Third Offense Consequences

Minors aged 17 or older face a Class B Misdemeanor for a third offense.
Significant penalties include:
- Fine between $250 and $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail.
- 180-day suspension of driving license or permit.
- Community service of 20 to 40 hours.
- Requirement to attend alcoholic awareness training, possibly with a parent or guardian.

False Identification

It is illegal for minors to use a fake ID or falsely claim to be 21 or older.
Penalties for using false identification mirror those for other underage alcohol offenses.

Consequences for False ID

First and second offenses are treated as Class C Misdemeanors with penalties like:
- Fine up to $500.
- Mandatory alcoholic awareness course.
- Community service ranging from 8 to 40 hours.
- Suspension of driving license or permit for 30 to 180 days.

Third Offense for Using False ID

Minors aged 17 and older face a Class B Misdemeanor with penalties including:
- Fine ranging from $250 to $2,000.
- Possible attendance with a parent or guardian at an alcoholic awareness course.
- Community service between 20 to 40 hours.
- 180-day suspension of driving license or permit.

Description

This quiz focuses on the laws and regulations regarding the sale of alcohol to minors. It explores what is considered legal or illegal for both sellers and servers. Understanding these laws is crucial for responsible alcohol service and compliance.