Safe Neighborhoods Initiative

 

Current state laws and helpful tips from local law enforcement are included to increase safety, improve neighborhood relationships, and reduce the likelihood of police involvement. Good planning and consideration before holding a party is always the best approach. 

 

Minor in Possession

(MCA Secton 45-5-624)

In the state of Montana, it is illegal to consume, purchase or posses an intoxicating substance such as alcohol. This does not apply if the individual is handling alcohol in the course of legitimate employment. Individuals under the age of 21 violating this law will face:

 

First offense up to $300 in fines, 20 hours of community service, and pay for a substance abuse information course (which can cost up to $250)

Second offense $200 - $600 in fines, 40 hours of community service, mandatory alcohol education and chemical dependence screening (to be paid for by the individual).

Three or more offenses up to $900 in fines, 60 hours of community service, alcohol treatment (to be paid for by the individual), and possible jail time.

 

45-5-622. Endangering welfare of children. It is unlawful to supply or encourage the use of an intoxicating substance to anyone under the age of 18. A person convicted of endangering the welfare of children could be fined up to $1000 or sentenced up to 6 months in jail or both.

 

45-5-623. Unlawful transactions with children. This offense is committed if a person knowingly sells or gives intoxicating substances including alcohol to a person under the age of 21. A person convicted of unlawful transactions with children could be fined up to $1000 or sentenced up to 6 months in jail or both. 

 

45-8-111. Public Nuisance. This offense is committed when a person knowingly creates, conducts, or maintains a public nuisance. Public nuisances include endangerment of health or safety, engaging in unlawful or offensive activity, obstructing the free use of property, and interfering with the comfortable enjoyment of life or property within a community or neighborhood. This applies to the noise from loud parties, uncontained garbage and obstruction of sidewalks.. A person convicted of maintaining a public nuisance will be fined up to $500 or spend up to 6 months in jail or both. Each day of such conduct constitutes a separate offense.

 

For more information on local prevention efforts, contact:

Community Alcohol Coalition-  bozemancac@yahoo.com

MSU Health Promotion-(406) 994-2337

Alcohol and Drug Services of Gallatin County  - (406) 586-5493 or www.adsgc.com

Bozeman City Attorney's Office - (406) 582-2309