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 stipulates that these students may taste alcoholic beverages for educational purposes, provided they complete an alcohol education program and that the tastings occur under the supervision of an authorized instructor who is at least 21 years old. The bill also requires the academic institution to maintain records of the tastings and clarifies that no charges can be imposed for the beverages tasted.

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 create exceptions for the tastings allowed under the new section, while still maintaining penalties for unlawful possession and intoxication for those under 21. The bill ensures that the educational tastings do not require a license or permit for the institutions involved, as long as 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