TRENTON, NJ – The Senate Judiciary Committee has advanced a bill aimed at addressing the growing issue of underage drinking in public places in New Jersey. The legislation, S-3954, sponsored by Senator Beach (D-Camden/Burlington), proposes enhanced penalties for underage individuals found possessing or consuming alcohol in public settings.
Senator Beach cited a significant increase in public parties involving underage drinking, especially at the Jersey Shore, over the past two years.
These gatherings often lead to excessive drinking, assaults, and other public safety incidents. He noted that the lack of penalties for public underage drinking has limited law enforcement’s ability to disperse these gatherings effectively, leading to some youth blatantly disregarding law enforcement instructions.
The proposed bill aims to address this issue by imposing a $50 fine on individuals under 21 who are found possessing or consuming alcohol in schools, public conveyances, public places, places of public assembly, or motor vehicles. The offenders would be charged on a complaint-summons.