Teen Alcohol Safety Program History:

Teen Alcohol Safety Program (TASP)

In 2000, the General Assembly enacted changes to the Possession of Malt Beverages law (7 VSA, Section 656). 

The intent of that legislation was to change violations of underage possession and consumption of alcohol to a civil ticket from a criminal violation, require substance abuse screening and to encourage more minors to participate in the Teen Alcohol Safety Program. This law affects those aged 16-20 years old.

However, multiple violations are occurring, despite the intent of the law of giving offenders limited opportunities for a clean record. Therefore a secure database has been created that will enable law enforcement and court diversion programs to efficiently track all violations of Title 7, Section 656.

Many county States Attorney's have now implemented a policy that requires a minor only be allowed TWO alcohol violations under Section 656 before being criminally charged with a Possession of Malt Beverages Offense.

See the T.A.S.P link for more information on the contract requirements  of the program.