Rhode Island Social Host Liability Law
Rhode Island has an extensive set of laws regarding the distribution and purchase of alcohol for persons under the age of 21. A law passed in 2006, known as a social host liability law, holds adults responsible if they knowingly allow underage alcohol consumption on their property or in situations under their control, or if they fail to take action against suspected underage drinking. Rhode Island is one of 35 states that have passed this type of law to hold adults responsible for the irresponsible actions of minors.
Social host liability law can be applied to a variety of situations in which an adult “knowingly permits minors to consume alcohol in his or her home.” For example, social host liability law can apply if:
- An adult allows a party in his or her home at which young adults are not prevented from bringing alcohol.
- An adult allows his or her child’s friends to consume alcohol on the premises.
- An adult fails to take action after noticing clues that reasonably indicate underage drinking practices, such as the presence of a keg, the smell of alcohol, intoxicated behavior exhibited by minors, or a large gathering of young people.
Those who support the law state that by forcing adults to take responsibility for the actions of minors, they will take extra steps to ensure that no illegal underage drinking takes place. However, opponents site that the law pins unfair responsibility on adults by blaming them for the actions of underage drinkers, especially those who have reached the age of 18 and are themselves legal adults capable of making their own decisions.
Contact Us
If you have been charged with a crime under Rhode Island’s social host liability law, or if you are facing charges for providing alcohol to persons under the age of 21, contact Rhode Island DUI defense lawyer James Powderly today at 401-662-9006.
