Bill > H1607

This bill establishes a three-year pilot program to discourage underage drinking by individuals under 21 years old and offers a non-criminal resolution for first-time offenders of certain alcohol-related laws (sections 34 through 34D of Chapter 138 of the General Laws). For individuals under 21 charged with a first-time violation of these sections, the charges will be treated as a non-criminal matter, requiring them to pay a $300 fine per violation and attend an approved alcohol awareness program, which includes classroom instruction, group discussion, and community service. If the individual causes personal injury or property damage during the offense, courts can still impose additional penalties. The bill also mandates notification to parents or legal guardians for offenders under 18 and establishes an "Alcohol Awareness Education Fund" to support prevention programs. Records of participation will be kept separately and used to identify repeat offenders, and the program's effectiveness will be evaluated after three years to determine if it should be extended.