The bill amends sections of the Code of West Virginia related to the sale and distribution of nonintoxicating beer and alcoholic liquor, with a focus on increasing penalties for selling alcohol to minors. Key changes include raising the minimum fine for violations from $25 to $50 and the maximum fine from $500 to $1,000. Additionally, the potential jail time for offenders is extended from 30 days to 60 days, with a maximum confinement period increased from six months to one year. A new provision allows Class B licensees who use transaction scan devices to verify customer ages to avoid penalties for employees who inadvertently sell to minors.

The bill also enhances penalties for individuals under 21 who misrepresent their age to purchase alcohol, increasing the maximum fine from $100 to $200 and extending the confinement period from 72 hours to 144 hours. Furthermore, it raises the penalties for adults who furnish alcohol to minors, with the maximum fine increasing from $100 to $200 and the confinement period extending from 10 days to 20 days. The legislation aims to strengthen enforcement against underage drinking and improve accountability for both sellers and consumers, while also allowing individuals aged 18 and older to work in establishments that sell alcohol under specific conditions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 11-16-18, 11-16-19, 60-3A-24