Bill > S145

This bill aims to deter adults from providing or obtaining alcohol for individuals under 21 years old by strengthening penalties and reporting requirements. Specifically, it amends Chapter 138 of the General Laws, which governs alcohol in Massachusetts. Under the proposed changes, any adult convicted of or admitting to sufficient facts for violating laws related to furnishing alcohol to minors will have this offense reported to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles. The Registrar will then be required to suspend the violator's driver's license or right to operate a vehicle for a period ranging from 60 days to two years. However, individuals facing license suspension can request a hearing to apply for a hardship license for employment or education, which may be granted for up to one year with specific daily time limits, provided they demonstrate that the reasons for their violations have been addressed. After one year from the conviction date, they can also apply for a hearing to request a new license on a limited basis, again requiring a showing that the causes of past violations are under control. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the penalties outlined in Section 34 of Chapter 138, which include those for selling, delivering, or furnishing alcohol to individuals under 21, will also apply to violations of Section 34D of the same chapter. It's important to note that individuals serving or distributing alcoholic beverages legally, as permitted by sections 12 and 15 of Chapter 138, will not be subject to these new provisions.