Senate No. 692 was duly passed by both houses of the New Jersey
Legislature and signed into law by the Governor on June 26, 2000,
to become effective immediately. This legislation amends N.J.S.A.
40:48-1.2 to provide a new section authorizing a municipality to enact
an ordinance making it unlawful for any person under the legal age,
who, without legal authority, knowingly possesses or knowingly consumes
an alcoholic beverage on private property and provides for the assessment
of penalties, including the suspension, revocation or postponement
of certain driving privileges. The Township of Clark intends to adopt
an ordinance in accordance with the aforesaid enabling legislation.
The Municipal Council of the Township of Clark is of the opinion that
such an ordinance is in the public interest and will promote public
safety and will contribute to the overall public health, safety and
welfare of the community at large.
It shall be unlawful for any person under the legal age who,
without legal authority, knowingly possesses or knowingly consumes
an alcoholic beverage on private property.
Underage persons reporting the need for medical assistance shall
be exempt from prosecution according to N.J.S.A. 40:48-1.2a.