Shoulder tap (alcohol)

Shoulder tap is a term used in the context of alcohol purchasing, particularly in countries like the United States where the legal drinking age is 21. It refers to the practice where an underage individual asks someone of legal age to purchase alcohol on their behalf. This typically occurs outside of liquor stores or other retail outlets that sell alcoholic beverages. The term "shoulder tap" comes from the notion of the underage person tapping the shoulder of a stranger and quietly asking them to buy alcohol.

Overview

The shoulder tap practice is a common method used by minors to circumvent laws regarding the legal drinking age. It poses legal risks for both the underage individual and the adult who agrees to purchase the alcohol. In many jurisdictions, adults caught buying alcohol for minors can face significant fines, community service, or even jail time. The laws and penalties vary widely from one location to another but generally aim to discourage adults from facilitating underage drinking.

Legal Implications

In an effort to combat underage drinking, many states and countries have implemented specific laws targeting the shoulder tap practice. These laws may include provisions that make it illegal to solicit someone to buy alcohol if you are underage, as well as making it illegal to purchase alcohol with the intention of giving it to someone underage. Enforcement tactics can include undercover operations where law enforcement officers pose as either the minor asking for the purchase or the adult being asked to make the purchase.

Prevention and Education

Various public health campaigns and educational programs have been developed to reduce underage drinking and inform both minors and adults of the legal consequences of engaging in the shoulder tap practice. These programs often emphasize the long-term health risks associated with underage drinking, as well as the immediate legal risks of buying alcohol for minors.

See Also

• Legal drinking age
• Underage drinking
• Alcohol laws
• Public health