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 Oregon, social host liability is governed by state statutes that address the responsibility of individuals who provide alcohol to guests. Under Oregon law, a social host may be held liable for damages or injuries caused by an intoxicated minor if the host knowingly provided alcohol to the minor or allowed the minor to consume alcohol on their premises. This is particularly the case if the host knew or should have known that the minor would be driving a vehicle. However, Oregon does not generally impose liability on social hosts for the actions of their adult guests (those 21 years or older) who become intoxicated, as long as the host is not engaged in the sale of alcohol or serving alcohol under a license or permit. It's important to note that while social host liability for adults is limited, it is always advisable to serve alcohol responsibly and take steps to prevent intoxicated guests from driving.