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, outlines the conditions under which a qualified student, defined as someone at least 18 years old enrolled in an accredited public college or university, may taste alcoholic beverages. Key requirements include the completion of an alcohol educational program, documentation of tastings, and that the tastings occur in controlled environments under the supervision of an authorized instructor who is at least 21 years old. The bill also clarifies that no charges can be imposed for the alcoholic beverages tasted and that the tasting must be part of the student's curriculum.

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 specify exceptions for the new tasting regulations under RSA 179:10-b. The bill maintains strict penalties for underage possession and intoxication while allowing for educational exceptions, thus balancing the enforcement of underage drinking laws with the educational needs of students in relevant academic programs. 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