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The question
Did the Arkansas State Legislature this year pass a new law that makes anyone under 21 in possession of alcohol if they have the substance in their system?
The answer
Yes. According to Sgt. Roy Bethell with the Arkadelphia Police Department, the Ledge this year passed the Minor in Possession law, which aims curb the use and abuse of alcohol by young people. Until recently, such laws punished minors only if they were caught holding an alcoholic beverage or if alcohol was found in a minor’s vehicle, Bethel said. On July 27, he said, “A new law went into effect that impacts how law enforcement combats underage drinking.”
What this means to you
“If you are under 21 and an officer confirms that you have alcohol in your body, that will be considered possession and a citation will be issued,” Bethell said. “In Arkansas, it is illegal for any person under 21 to purchase or possess beer, wine or liquor.”
The penalty
The penalties include a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $500, and suspension of the minor’s driver’s license. Judges may also impose other punishments, including probation.
The question
Did the Arkansas State Legislature this year pass a new law that makes anyone under 21 in possession of alcohol if they have the substance in their system?
The answer
Yes. According to Sgt. Roy Bethell with the Arkadelphia Police Department, the Ledge this year passed the Minor in Possession law, which aims curb the use and abuse of alcohol by young people. Until recently, such laws punished minors only if they were caught holding an alcoholic beverage or if alcohol was found in a minor’s vehicle, Bethel said. On July 27, he said, “A new law went into effect that impacts how law enforcement combats underage drinking.”
What this means to you
“If you are under 21 and an officer confirms that you have alcohol in your body, that will be considered possession and a citation will be issued,” Bethell said. “In Arkansas, it is illegal for any person under 21 to purchase or possess beer, wine or liquor.”
The penalty
The penalties include a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $500, and suspension of the minor’s driver’s license. Judges may also impose other punishments, including probation.
