This bill amends current law to allow students under the age of 21 to taste wine in specific educational settings, particularly at qualified academic institutions that offer programs in enology or brewing. The new section, RSA 179:10-b, defines a "qualified student" as someone at least 18 years old enrolled in an accredited public college or university. It outlines the conditions under which these students may taste alcoholic beverages, including the requirement to complete an alcohol educational program, maintain records of tastings, and ensure that tastings occur in controlled facilities. Importantly, the bill specifies that the tasting must be for educational purposes and under the supervision of an authorized instructor who is at least 21 years old.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing laws regarding the possession and consumption of alcohol by minors. It inserts provisions into RSA 179:10 and RSA 179:5 to clarify that the restrictions on alcohol possession do not apply to the tastings permitted under the new section. However, it maintains that no one under 21 may receive an alcoholic beverage unless it is part of their curriculum. The bill also states that no license or permit is required for institutions conducting these tastings, provided that no extra fees are charged for the beverages. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 179:10, 179:5
Version adopted by both bodies: 179:10, 179:5
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 179:10, 179:5