What is a MIP?
A MIP, or Minor in Possession citation, can be levied against any individual under the age of 21 who has consumed any amount of alcohol.
Under Michigan State Law:
“A minor shall not purchase or attempt to purchase alcoholic liquor, consume or attempt to consume alcoholic liquor, possess or attempt to possess alcoholic liquor, or have any bodily alcohol content, except as provided in this section. A minor who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by the following fines and sanctions and is not subject to the penalties prescribed in section 909”. The University of Michigan’s Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities includes a clause echoing the state law.
Practically, this means if you are carrying alcohol or measure over .01 in blood alcohol level (BAC), you are liable to receive a MIP. If you are operating a vehicle or are in possession of a fake ID at the time of arrest, your license and/or driving privileges could be suspended, in addition to mandated probation or community service. Additional University sanctions, such as counseling, education and community restitution, may be levied as well. Severe violations could warrant suspension or expulsion.
MIPs are currently classified as misdemeanors, although Michigan’s legislature is currently reviewing a bill that would decriminalize the charge for first offenders to a civil infraction, making it similar to a traffic fine.