Bill Summary: SB 2254

• Establishes criminal offense for persons 21+ who knowingly permit individuals under 21 to possess or consume alcoholic beverages, low-point beer, or controlled dangerous substances at their residence or controlled premises.

• Creates tiered penalties: first violation is misdemeanor with up to $500 fine or 1 year jail time; second violation is misdemeanor with up to $2,500 fine or 1 year jail time; third+ violation is felony with $2,500-$5,000 fine and/or up to 5 years imprisonment.

• If violation causes great bodily injury or death, offender faces felony conviction with $2,500-$5,000 fine and/or up to 5 years imprisonment in addition to other penalties.

• Provides rebuttable presumption of compliance if person takes reasonable steps to prevent underage consumption, including controlling access to substances, verifying ID, and supervising gatherings.

• Repeals previous 2006 law on intoxicating liquors and becomes effective November 1, 2010.