By Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department As a college town, we often have many out of state students around the community at a given time. They patronize clubs or restaurant in the areas. With that in mind, I was asked a question regarding the types identification that can be used to purchase alcoholic beverages in Massachusetts? Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 138 Section 34B is the law which outlines identification for alcohol purchases. The law lists four acceptable forms of identification for employees and people having control of liquor establishments to rely upon. They are a Massachusetts Drivers License, Massachusetts Registry issued Liquor Identification Card, a passport issued by the US or country recognized by the US, and/or a valid US Military Identification. Any other forms of identification (example out of state driver's license) are to be taken by licensees, agents, or employees at their own risk. Should there be a violation for service to a minor, only the four types listed earlier will provide a valid defense for the people in charge of the establishment. It is the law to insure underage people are not served alcoholic beverages. It can be challenging in our town, which is very near the borders with other states, when people from out of the area are purchasing these items. The best rule for establishments to live by is when in doubt, do not serve. It is better to be cautious and maybe lose a sale as opposed to one's liquor license for a period of time. For those people who get "carded," take it as a compliment and provide your license. The people asking are only doing their jobs to keep alcohol out of the hands of minors. |
Thanks again for your questions and comments. Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St., Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at swojnar@dudleypolice.com. Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen
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