e it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:

Sec. 1. 17 MRSA §2003-B is enacted to read:

§2003-B.__Transporting an open container of liquor

1.__Definitions.__As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings.

A.__"Liquor" means and includes any alcoholic, spirituous, vinous or fermented beverage or other alcoholic beverage, or combination of liquors and mixed liquors, intended for human consumption, which contains more than 1/2 of 1% alcohol by volume.

B.__"Open container" means not having a cap, stopper or other cover in place.

C.__"Vehicle" means every vehicle that is self-propelled and designed for carrying persons or property or that is used for the transportation of persons.

2.__Crime.__A person is guilty of transporting an open container if the person:

A.__Transports an open container of liquor in a vehicle on a public way.

3.__Evidence.__The possession of an open container of liquor in a vehicle is prima facie evidence of a violation of this section.

4.__Violation.__Violation of this section is a Class E crime.

SUMMARY

This bill prohibits the transport of an open container of liquor by vehicle.