2/22/08-A bill has died that sought to ban consumption and possession of open containers of alcohol in vehicles traveling public roadways.
Sponsored by Delegate Harry Purkey, R-Virginia Beach, HB27 remained in the House Militia, Police and Public Safety Committee at the deadline to advance to the chamber floor, effectively killing it.
Virginia law now prohibits drivers from having an open alcoholic beverage, but passengers 21 years of age or older are free to drink while in the vehicle. The bill called for eliminating the open container provision. Violators would have faced $25 fines.
It included exceptions for passengers in RVs, buses and limousines.
The bill also would have allowed the state more freedom for how to use federal highway dollars. The state is being forced to spend a portion of its federal funding on traffic safety because the state doesn’t have a ban on open containers of alcohol in vehicles.

12/7/07-A bill has been filed for consideration during the 2008 regular session that would prohibit open containers of alcohol in vehicles.
Virginia law now prohibits drivers from having an open alcoholic beverage, but passengers 21 years of age or older are free to drink while in the vehicle.
Sponsored by Delegate Harry Purkey, R-Virginia Beach, HB27 would eliminate the open container provision. Violators would face $25 fines.
The bill includes exceptions for passengers in RVs, buses and limousines.
It also would allow the state more freedom for how to use federal highway dollars. The state is being forced to spend a portion of its federal funding on traffic safety because the state doesn’t have a ban on open containers of alcohol in vehicles.
The bill can be considered during session that begins Jan. 9.
For House bill status, call (804) 698-1500. In Virginia, call 1-877-391-3228.