As we head into the summer months and high school seniors contemplate spreading their wings as they head off to a college or university, it is inevitable that the topic of underage drinking becomes a focus for law enforcement. Massachusetts teens seem especially susceptible to this issue as the Commonwealth has some of the highest rates of underage drinking in the country, according to a 2019 study.
Research collected and analyzed by American Addiction Centers shows that “nearly 29 percent of Massachusetts minors ages 12-20 consume alcohol.” The report also indicates that the Bay State leads the country in binge drinking, with over 19% of Massachusetts minors reported binge drinking. Binge drinking is defined as consuming four or more drinks in one sitting.
Let’s examine these issues and explore what parents and teens should know about drinking underage.
Legal Consequences
Using a fake ID and transporting/possessing alcohol as a minor can result in fines, community service, and a driver’s license suspension.
A minor who tries to purchase alcohol at a store or restaurant could face severe consequences, such as a fine of $300 and/or a suspension of a driver’s license for 180 days. Without a license for that extended period, you may have difficulty with employment, school or getting from point A to point B without the assistance of a friend or family member.
Should a minor be found to have or use a fake ID, there are also consequences for this action. Massachusetts Law states, “Any person who makes or uses a false identification card or driver’s license can be punished by a fine of no more than $200 or imprisonment not to exceed 3 months.”
It is also illegal for a minor to transport alcohol unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. The MA law states “anyone under the age of 21 may not transport alcohol unless (a) accompanied by a parent or guardian; or (b) if they are between 18-21 and they are transporting alcohol as part of their job. The fine for a first offense is no more than $50; subsequent offenses are no more than $150.” Law enforcement can, however, arrest any minor violating this law, and a conviction under this law will lead to a 90-day driver’s license suspension. (There are exceptions to this law, which include the concept of not knowing the alcohol was in the car. For example, if the minor were borrowing a parent’s car and did not know a bottle of wine was in the trunk, it would not violate the law.
Health and Wellness Consequences
In addition to legal consequences, health and wellness consequences are also something to be considered.
Underage drinking is linked to increased risk of accidents, injuries, and even death, as well as long-term health problems. Studies have shown that early alcohol consumption can have adverse effects on brain development, increase the risk of developing an alcohol use disorder later in life, and be linked to mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
Before brushing off the topic of alcohol use and fake IDs with your teen, consider the legal and health consequences. Should you or your child need legal assistance in this area, please contact us at the Law Office of Patrick Conway at 978.473.7599 or through our contact form online.