Chaska, Minn., has become the first community in Minnesota to pass a social-host law that makes it a crime to knowingly provide alcohol to a minor, the Chaska Herald reported Sept. 11.

The Chaska City Council unanimously approved the social-host ordinance this week. "What this does is to clarify that it is illegal to permit consumption of alcohol on the premises," said City Administrator David Pokorney.

The Carver County Board has been considering a similar measure but has been bogged down in debate.

The measure carves out exceptions for religious observances, legal work-related alcohol possession, and for parents who give alcohol to their children in their own home. Violators face misdemeanor charges when the ordinance goes into effect next month.