Adults Could Lose Licenses for Supplying Minors With Booze

Raleigh, N.C. — It is currently a misdemeanor to give alcohol to someone who is under the age of 21, but a lawmaker wants to turn up the heat on adults who supply booze to minors. 

Wake County State Rep. Ty Harrell is filing a bill that would revoke a person's driver's license for one year if he or she is convicted.

The topic has been in the news lately after a string of alcohol-related crashes that killed several students from Wakefield High School. There have been efforts to better educate teens on the dangers of drinking and driving. In addition, community forums have concentrated on the role of parents and the frequency of house parties.

Under Harrell's bill, adults who help minors get alcohol would lose much of their driving privileges. They would still be eligible for a restricted license to drive to work or school.

The liquor industry is behind the proposal, and officials said related legislation will likely follow.