Assembly passes underage drinking bill

Alcohol sellers could sue underage patrons, parents

MADISON, Wis. — The state Assembly has approved a Republican bill that would allow bars and liquor stores to sue underage patrons or their parents for $1,000.

The bill would allow anyone with a liquor license to bring civil lawsuits against underage patrons or their parent or guardians if the patrons are still minors. If the liquor license holder prevails, the judge must order the underage patron or their guardians to pay the establishment $1,000.

The measure would not change any underage drinking laws in the state. Underage people could still drink in bars with their parents or a spouse who’s at least 21.

The Assembly approved the measure on a unanimous voice vote Tuesday. The measure now goes to the state Senate.