Punishments
Punishments for MIP's vary greatly from state-to-state. Since alcohol enforcement (and the establishment of drinking ages) is the responsibility of the individual states, only local and state agencies can legally write a MIP citation. As such, each state levies its own fines and punishments for a MIP.
In some states, a simple first-time MIP without any other circumstances (such as driving or public intoxication) may only involve a fine of $100-500. Often fines are reduced or eliminated provided the person convicted completes a program such as alcohol education, probation, or community service. In some states, a fine is eliminated, supplemented or accompanied with a loss of the accused driver license for a period of time ranging from 30 days to 12 months. For example, violation of California's Business & Professions Code Section 25662, regarding persons under 21 in possession of alcohol, carries a punishment of $250 and a mandatory revocation of driving privileges for one year in accordance with Vehicle Code Section 13202.5.
Subsequent offenses or a person with a preexisting criminal record may frequently receive a full fine, or in some extreme cases, several days in jail. In many cases a third MIP may result in a loss of the accused driver's license until the age of 21.
In Washington State, the statutes impose that: providing to and possession of alcohol by minors (persons under 21) is a gross misdemeanor with a potential of $5,000 and a year in jail. RCW 66.44.270. a
Read more about this topic: Minor In Possession
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—Thomas Henry Huxley (1825–95)
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—Stanley I. Greenspan (20th century)
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—Bible: Hebrew Psalms 149:5-9.