Facts About Underage Drinking

• Alcohol is a factor in the four leading causes of death among persons ages 10 to 24.
• All states and the District of Columbia have the minimum drinking age of 21.
• In 2005, over 30 percent of Newaygo County 10th graders and 44 percent of 12th graders admitted using alcohol in the past 30 days (PRIDE Survey).
• In Michigan, 1,749 under age drinking drivers were involved in automobile crashes in 2003.

Michigan Law

It is illegal for a person under the age of 21 to:

• Consume alcohol.
• Have any bodily alcohol content.
• Have alcohol in their possession regardless if they consumed it or not.
• Use a fake ID to obtain alcohol.
• Allow an intoxicated person to use your motor vehicle.
• Transport an unopened alcohol container in a motor vehicle.
• Possess or transfer an opened alcohol container in a motor vehicle.

If you are under 21 and are caught with alcohol in your possession the first time:

• Fine $100.
• If you are under 18, your parents will be notified.
• May receive court imposed requirements for education, screening, assessment, treatment, and/or community service.
• Upon successful completion of requirements the court may declare "no conviction" so that there is not a misdemeanor record.
• Entered into a statewide tracking system with the Secretary of State.

For parents and other adults: 

• It is illegal to provide alcohol to minors, even in your own home.

• It is illegal to provide a fake ID to anyone under 21.
• You are legally responsible for anything that might happen to a minor who has been served alcohol in your home.
• You may be subject to criminal prosecution and fines.
• If you furnish alcohol to a minor you may be liable for monetary damages caused by that individual.

Providing alcohol to minors is ILLEGAL. Fines are up to $1000 and/or up to 60 days in jail and possible community service.