New State Laws Increase Underage Alcohol Fines

As students prepare to embark on the Spring semester's syllabus week, it is important to understand some of the recent changes to Pennsylvania law with regard to drinking violations.

Along with the new year comes new, harsher, penalties for alcohol violations in Pennsylvania. Specifically, there have been increases to the fines levied against those caught drinking underage. Previously, the maximum penalty was a $300 fine, however the new law stipulates a $500 fine for a first time offender and a $1,000 fine for a second offense.