Helena hearing set on Montana social host law

An issue supported by a local group trying to reduce underage drinking is coming up for a hearing this week in the state House of Representatives.

House Bill 20, sponsored by Rep. Gordon Hendrick, R-Superior, would allow counties to set social host ordinances that could hold adults responsible when underage drinking occurs on their property. A hearing before the House Local Government Committee will be Thursday.

The Hill County Coalition for Rethinking Drinking advocates social host ordinances. It is researching and pushing for creation of such an ordinance in Havre. Municipalities can issue s...