18 Jul 2019

CNMI passes bill allowing minors to serve alcohol

6:31 pm on 18 July 2019

A bill allowing minors to serve and sell alcoholic beverages has been passed in the Northern Marianas House of Representatives.

Red wine glass and glass of light beer

Photo: 123RF

The measure, according to its author Representative Joel Camacho, will open up more job opportunities for the youth at a time when hundreds of high school graduates enter the workforce each year.

Mr Camacho said if 18-year-olds are allowed to vote, then they should also be entrusted to work in establishments that serve alcohol as long as they don't mix the drinks.

The bill would allow people who are at least 18 years old to serve or sell alcoholic beverages but not mix them.

It now goes before the Senate.

It will then need the Governor's signature to become law.

The CNMI currently bars companies from allowing staff under the age of 21 to mix or serve alcoholic beverages.