The National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984 prohibits the sale, purchase, or public possession of alcoholic beverages by individuals under the age of 21. It applies to all types of alcoholic beverages including beer, wine, and spirits. The law specifically requires states to enforce these prohibitions or face reductions in federal highway funding. However, the act does not prohibit the consumption of alcohol by those under 21; consumption laws vary by state and include exceptions for religious, medical, or parental consent circumstances. The law also defines "public possession" with specific exemptions such as possession for religious purposes, medical use, employment in alcohol-related jobs, or possession accompanied by a legal adult 21 or older.
