The proposed bill aims to enhance regulations surrounding the verification of age for individuals in licensed premises serving alcohol in North Dakota. A new section is introduced that allows peace officers to request photo identification from individuals suspected of being under the age of twenty-one. If an individual refuses to provide identification upon request, they will be guilty of an infraction. However, if they subsequently present valid identification proving they are of legal drinking age before the final disposition of the infraction, the charges will be dismissed.

Additionally, the bill amends section 5-02-10 of the North Dakota Century Code, which outlines the process for filing complaints against licensed retailers of alcoholic beverages. The amendments specify that individuals must file an affidavit detailing the alleged violation within fourteen days of the incident. The local governing body or the attorney general is then required to set a hearing within a specified timeframe, ensuring that the process is timely and transparent. The amendments also mandate that hearings be recorded, enhancing accountability in the enforcement of alcohol regulations.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 5-02-10
Adopted by the House Political Subdivisions Committee: 5-02-10
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 5-02-10
Adopted by the Senate Judiciary Committee: 5-02-10