Maine laws on alcohol to minors?

It is illegal to sell, furnish or give liquor or malt beverage to a minor.

* Penalties: Up to $1,000 fine and/or up to one year in jail

It is illegal for a minor to possess, purchase, or consume liquor or malt beverages.

* Penalties: Up to $500 fine and/or up to six months in jail for the first offense, up to $1,000 fine and/or up to one year in jail for a subsequent offense

It is illegal for a person under the age of 21 to enter an establishment where liquor or malt beverages are the primary commodities sold for on-premises consumption.

* Penalties: Up to $500 fine and/or up to six months in jail

Exceptions

There are a few exceptions to these laws. For example, it is not illegal for a minor to:

* Possess, purchase, or consume liquor or malt beverages if they are accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult who is 21 years of age or older

* Enter an establishment where liquor or malt beverages are the primary commodities sold for on-premises consumption if they are accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult who is 21 years of age or older

* Engage in winetasting in Maine State Park facilities under the Maine State Park Service Alcohol Control Plan. These facilities include Camden Hills, Ferry Beach, Lily Bay, Lake St. George, and Sebago Lake.

Reporting Underage Drinking

If you see someone underage who appears to be drinking alcohol, you should report it to the police. You can also report underage drinking to the Maine Attorney General's Office by calling 1-800-436-7888 or by visiting the website at https://www.maine.gov/ag/contact.