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 Minnesota, social host liability is governed by Minnesota Statutes section 340A.90, which holds social hosts liable for damages caused by underage drinkers if the host knowingly provides alcohol to someone under the age of 21, or allows alcohol to be consumed on their premises by an underage person. This can include situations where the host should have known that the minor would drive a motor vehicle under the influence. However, Minnesota law does not generally impose liability on social hosts for the actions of their of-age guests (21 and over), unless the host's actions were particularly reckless or egregious. It's important to note that while social hosts may not be liable for the actions of adult guests, commercial providers of alcohol, such as bars and restaurants, can be held liable under certain circumstances through Minnesota's Dram Shop Act.