IL HB0494

Permits individuals ages 18-20 to consume beer or wine at restaurants under direct parental/guardian supervision when the sale of alcohol is not the principal business, and allows restaurants to refuse such service.

Establishes immunity from criminal charges for individuals under 21 who request emergency medical assistance for someone experiencing alcohol-related medical emergencies, provided they remain at the scene and cooperate with responders.

Allows underage students ages 18-20 enrolled in accredited educational institutions to taste (but not imbibe) alcoholic beverages up to 6 times per class in culinary arts, fermentation science, food service, or restaurant management degree programs under direct instructor supervision.

Prohibits law enforcement from charging individuals solely based on underage alcohol possession or consumption violations if they meet the conditions for requesting emergency medical assistance.

Maintains existing restrictions on underage alcohol purchase, possession, and consumption, with exceptions for religious services and parental-supervised consumption in private homes.