Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Prevention Programs include promotion of an online alcohol self-screening tool and training of student health clinic staff to screen students for substance use and make appropriate referrals. Other activities include substance use information dissemination through both traditional (pamphlets/brochures/posters) and non-traditional means (internet) and participation in campus/community coalition to review alcohol policy issues. For more information, call 994-5497
Free, anonymous online screening:
Interested in learning how your drinking patterns compare to the norm? If you consume alcoholic beverages, it's important to know whether your drinking patterns are safe, risky or harmful. Answering these questions will take only a few minutes, and will generate personalized results based on your age, gender and drinking patterns. Your responses are completely confidential and anonymous.
The 411 on Alcohol in Bozeman
What you need to know as a resident of your community
Special Security Service Charges at Loud or Unruly Gatherings
(City of Bozeman Ordinance 1656)
When a police officer responds to a loud or unruly gathering in the city with a given address, the officer shall warn the responsible person (renter and/or owner) that they will be charged the costs of special security services for any subsequent police calls to the scene over the next 12 months*. Charges include the cost of responders’ time and the cost of any emergency or other equipment used or damaged in connection with the c all.
In addition to the special security charges:
First violation = $100 fine
Second violation = $250 fine
Third violation = $500 fine
*In addition to a formal warning, police officers called to a loud or unruly party may also cite the host with a “public nuisance” violation, which entails fines up to $500. Additional sanctions and fines, such as those associated with providing alcohol to a minor may also be imposed at the officer’s discretion.
Minor In Possession—MIP
(MCA 45-5-624)
In the state of Montana, it is illegal for an individual under the age of 21 to consume or possess an intoxicating substance. This does not apply if the individual is handling alcohol in the course of legitimate employment.
As of 2005, individuals violating this law will face:
First offense—$100—$300 fine, plus fees associated with 20 hours of community service, a community based substance abuse informational course, and any other court mandated sanctions.
Second offense—$200—$600 fine, plus fees associated with 40 hours of community service, a community based substance abuse informational course, and possible drug or alcohol treatment.
Three or more offenses— #300—$900 fine, plus fees associated with 60 hours of community service, a community based substance abuse informational course, and possible drug or alcohol treatment.
A first MIP offense typically costs between $350—$530
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs—DUI
(MCA 61-8-714)
It is illegal to drive or be in actual physical control of a motor vehicle with a Blood Alcohol Content of .08 or higher.
illegal at .02 if under 21
As of 2005, individuals violating this law will face:
First offense—imprisonment*, anywhere from 24 hours to 6 months, mandatory education program, and a fine of $300—$1,000.
Second offense—imprisonment*, anywhere from 7 days to 6 months, mandatory education and treatment program, and a fine of $600—$1,000.
Third offense—imprisonment*, anywhere from 30 days to 1 year, mandatory education and treatment program, and a fine of $1,000—$5,000.
Four or more offenses—It becomes a felony. Offender will be sentenced to the department of correction for placement in an appropriate correctional facility or program for a term up to 13 months, and a fine of $1,000- $10,000.
* Portions of the imprisonment sentence may be suspended for a period of up to one year pending completion of a court ordered chemical dependency assessment, education, or treatment.
Open Container
(MCA 61-8-460)
It is illegal to have an open alcoholic beverage container in a motor vehicle passenger area. An offender will be fined up to $100.
Keg Registration
(MCA 16-3-321)
State law requires that all beer kegs have a registration tag. This law gives police the tools to locate the adult purchaser of the keg, thus discouraging people from providing alcohol to underage drinkers.
Endangering Welfare of Children/Unlawful Transactions with Children
(MCA 45-5-622 & 623)
It is illegal to supply or encourage the use on an intoxicating substance to anyone under the age of 18. A person convicted of unlawful transactions with children could be fined up to $1000 or sentenced up to 6 months in jail or both..
Who to call
CALL 911 if your safety is at risk, a person is injured or non-responsive, or you suspect someone is being hurt.
Tips for Neighbors:
Get to know your neighbors. If you host a party, inform your neighbors and ask them to call you if the noise becomes a problem.
Phone the Bozeman police at 582-2000 (option #2) under the following circumstances:
A house party has become loud or disruptive. Do not feel obligated to give inconsiderate neighbors second or third chances. In order to address the problem, actions need to be taken earlier rather than later.
You suspect illegal or dangerous behavior such as drunk driving, underage drinking,, violence or destruction of property.
For more information on local prevention efforts, contact:
Community Alcohol Coalition
bozemancac@yahoo.com
MSU Health Promotion
994-2337
Alcohol & Drug Services of Gallatin County
586-5493
Bozeman City Attorney’s Office
582-2309
The Bozeman Community Alcohol Coalition (CAC) represents a variety of community interests dedicated to promoting the quality and safety of the community and the campus environments by working to prevent the illegal and harmful use of alcohol, while promoting responsible behavior.
