New Futures Documents

Most underage drinkers get their alcohol from adults. In 2004 the NH legislature passed a law (RSA 644:18) to hold “hosts” of parties responsible for the actions of underage participants. This law can be applied to any adult. Under this law, a person who hosts a party where minors drink alcohol or use drugs may be charged with a misdemeanor, fined up to $2,000 and spend a year in jail.

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Alcohol is our #1 youth drug problem in New Hampshire. In our state, alcohol use often begins at a very young age—more than 1 in 4 high school students had their first drink of alcohol before the age of 13.

Youth who drink before they turn 15 are four times more likely to develop alcohol dependence than those who start drinking at 21.

The number of young people who consume alcohol often or heavily is staggering. Almost one half—47 percent—of New Hampshire high school students report current alcohol use; one third—31 percent— report binge drinking in the past month (5 or more drinks at a time).

Young people who binge drink are more likely to engage in other risky behaviors, including sexual intercourse, violence, other drug use, and drinking and driving.

Underage drinking costs our state $214 million a year—this includes medical care, work loss and pain and suffering.

Download the attached PDF to read more.