All states have provisions that prohibit supplying alcohol to underage individuals. States punish these activities as criminal offenses, and anyone who knowingly supplies underage individuals with alcohol is committing a crime—except in a few limited circumstances provided by some state laws, such as in a home environment, or for medicinal purposes.
In North Carolina, it is illegal to supply alcohol to anyone under the age of 21, with very few exceptions. This prohibition is outlined in the North Carolina General Statutes, specifically in NCGS § 18B-302. Violating this law is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor, which can result in fines, community service, and even jail time. The law does allow for some exceptions, such as for religious purposes, during a religious ceremony, or for medicinal purposes when prescribed by a doctor. Additionally, under certain circumstances, an underage person may consume alcohol at home with the supervision of a parent or guardian. However, outside of these specific exceptions, providing alcohol to an underage individual is a criminal offense in North Carolina.