In many states a social host—including the guest’s employer—who does not charge an adult guest—18 years or older in some states and 21 years or older in other states—for alcoholic drinks and who does not serve the beverages under the authority of a license or permit—is not liable for the guest’s actions or injuries to himself or others.

But in most states an adult social host is liable for personal injuries and property damage caused by a minor to whom the social host provides or furnishes alcoholic beverages—especially if the social host knew or should have known the minor would drive a motor vehicle under the influence or if the minor was obviously intoxicated when the social host provided or furnished alcoholic beverages.

Laws regarding social host liability vary from state to state and are usually located in a state’s statutes.

In Iowa, social host liability is governed by Iowa Code section 123.92, which holds that a social host may be liable for damages resulting from the provision of alcohol to a person under the legal age for alcohol consumption, which is 21. This means that if an adult provides or furnishes alcoholic beverages to a minor, and the minor subsequently causes injury or property damage, the social host could be held responsible. However, Iowa law does not impose liability on social hosts for the actions of their adult guests who are of legal drinking age. It is important for social hosts in Iowa to be aware of these laws to avoid potential legal consequences when hosting events where alcohol is served.